Severe weather warnings go on networking sites

SEVERE weather warnings, major pollution and disease outbreaks will be posted on social networking sites under a new system to alert the public.

Highlands and Islands Strategic Co-ordinating Group, which is chaired by Northern Constabulary’s Chief Constable George Graham, has officially launched new Facebook and Twitter pages.

The group brings together expertise for emergency planning, and major emergency response and recovery, and the web pages will be a one-stop-shop for information. Weather-related disasters, such as storms, gales and flooding, major pollution of controlled waters, the closure of a lifeline route and the impact of a pandemic disease are all highlighted.

Mr Graham said: “Social media now plays an unprecedented role as a vehicle of public communication.”

Alistair Dodds, chief executive at Highland Council, added: “It is important to assure the public that key public agencies are prepared for emergencies.”