Tail end of Hurricane Gonzalo blows into Scotland

THE remnants of Hurricane Gonzalo have blown into Scotland causing rush-hour disruption for commuters.
Calm before the storm over Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeenshire yesterday. Picture: HEMEDIACalm before the storm over Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeenshire yesterday. Picture: HEMEDIA
Calm before the storm over Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeenshire yesterday. Picture: HEMEDIA

Some areas were subjected to gusts of wind up to 65mph, but forecasters predicted that the worst of the weather will be over after today.

The tail-end of the hurricane saw heavy rain which led to poor visibility on the A90 south of Aberdeen, and the Forth Road Bridge, the A87 Skye Bridge and the A898 Erskine Bridge were among the bridges closed to high-sided vehicles.

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The fall-out from Gonzalo also caused widespread travel disruption in England with 110 flights being axed at Heathrow airport.

Ferry services are so far expected to continue as normal, with P&O ferries confirming that all of their Irish sea services are running to schedule.

The Met office has issued a severe weather warning, with forecasts for Scotland over tonight and tomorrow predicting gale force winds and heavy rain.

The Met Office said: “The remains of Hurricane Gonzalo will run eastwards across the Atlantic, reaching the UK on Monday night, bringing a period of strong winds and heavy rain to the UK.

“The strongest winds are expected on Tuesday as the low pressure clears eastwards.

“Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity, but there remains the potential for localised disruption to travel, especially as the strongest winds will coincide with rush hour in places.

“Fallen leaves impeding drainage increases the risk of surface water affecting roads, while some damage to trees is possible, given that many are still in full leaf.”

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Hurricane Gonzalo last week caused widespread damage and a power blackout when it hit Bermuda.

The Bermuda weather service had warned residents not to go outside when the storm’s calm eye moved in, but some ventured out any way to do quick damage assessments, noting that porches were destroyed and power lines were downed.

Royal Navy frigate HMS Argyll has arrived at the tiny British territory to assist in the relief effort if required

The vessel is equipped with a helicopter and a number of small boats to help with reconnaissance and transport, and is also able to assist with power generation, communication and water supplies, the Ministry of Defence said.

Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said: “Royal Navy personnel are trained to respond to situations such as this and HMS Argyll is well resourced and ready to provide assistance to the people of Bermuda.”

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