Shetland hit by flash flooding and landslide ahead of storms
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 22 Oct, 19:09 · Archive
Flash flooding has damaged businesses in Lerwick and closed a road on the west of Shetland after heavy rain.
Flash flooding has hit Shetland after heavy rain on Thursday, damaging businesses in Lerwick and closing a road on the west of the island. The single-track road between Gardenhouse and Reawick was blocked by a landslide, with Shetland Islands Council diverting traffic through alternative routes whilst work to clear it was expected to take a few hours. Police Scotland urged drivers to avoid the area.
Drains across Lerwick and other parts of the islands were overwhelmed, leaving streets awash. The flooding occurred at high tide, worsening the impact. Significant flooding was reported around the Esplanade and Harrison Square in Lerwick, with several cafes, restaurants and shops damaged. Johnny Sandison, who works at Lerwick Brewery, described the rain as 'biblical', saying it was 'probably the heaviest rain I have ever seen in Shetland in my life'. Kenneth Hughson, a chef at The Dowry restaurant, said their kitchen flooded 'within thirty seconds', causing them to lose stock. Kirsty Semple, owner of Beauty 109 on Lerwick's Commercial Street, reported water 'pouring' into her shop.
Shetland Islands Council made sandbags available and work began to clear drains on the Veensgarth Brae and the three-lane section north of Lerwick. The flooding precedes Storm Austen's arrival on Friday and Storm Boelo on Saturday.
How it is being reported
- Shetland homes and businesses hit by flooding after heavy downpourTorrential rain hit Lerwick and other parts of the islands ahead of the arrival Storm Austen and Storm Boelo.Press and Journal · 22 Oct, 18:50
- Shetland businesses hit by flooding after heavy rainShetland Islands Council is working to clear drains after businesses were impacted by flood water.BBC North East Orkney And Shetland · 22 Oct, 16:07
In this story: Shetland Islands Council · Shetland · Lerwick · Gardenhouse · Reawick · Police Scotland
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