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A spokesman for the emergency planning group urged islanders to secure any loose debris before violent winds arrived over the festive period.

 

He said: “The construction industry is advised to secure scaffolding and any lose items on building sites.”

 

Western Isles Council asked family, neighbours and friends “living nearby to assist and support elderly and vulnerable people.”

 

Chief inspector Gordon Macleod of Police Scotland urged islanders to report power cuts and hydro cable damage by dialling 105 so energy company SSE can undertake repairs.

 

The same number can be used to highlight neighbours or friends who may need extra help during blackouts.

 

In addition, snow and wintry conditions are expected on roads on higher ground which risks travel disruptions in these areas, he said.

 

On Friday and Christmas Eve, the possibility of 90mph gusts will also disrupt travel in the island, he said.

 

The fire service advised people to take extra care if using candles during power cuts.

 

In the event of a loss of 999 services, all fire stations will be manned by emergency services.

 

 

Violent weather - disruption to services

20 December 2016

The Western Isles emergency planning group has met to discuss the severe weather forecast for Friday and Saturday.

 

Storm Barbara is expected to bring high winds with gusts of up to 90mph. An amber warning has been issued.

 

The storm is likely to result in structural damage, disruption to power supplies and travel, with restrictions on bridges and disruption to ferries.

 

Islanders are advised to travel with care.

 

The council’s road department and police will be monitoring all causeways.