Weathering the storm: Éowyn's impact

Storm Éowyn brought very strong winds to parts of the country, including East Lothian.

The Met Office issued several amber and red weather warnings with the entirety of the UK having either yellow, amber or red warnings in place for Friday 24 January. The strong winds associated with Storm Éowyn and the red weather warnings represented a danger to life from flying debris, dangerous driving conditions, power cuts and damage to buildings. 

East Lothian Council's multi-agency response to Storm Éowyn

In the face of Storm Éowyn, we demonstrated excellent coordination and readiness through our multi-agency response. The Emergency Response group, comprising key service colleagues and partner organisations such as Police, Scottish Government and Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN), held regular meetings before, during, and after the red weather warning. This collaboration ensured a co-ordinated response to the storm's various challenges.

Proactive planning and early warnings

When the weather warning was upgraded to red, early planning and preparation were crucial. Swift decisions regarding school and early learning closures, waste service arrangements, and the closure of public buildings not only safeguarded staff but also provided the community with advance warnings, allowing residents to make necessary arrangements. Staff were advised to work from home where possible, ensuring their safety.

On-the-ground efforts during the storm

While many staff members worked from home, several teams were out in the storm, working tirelessly to keep roads clear, remove debris, deal with fallen trees, and provide vital care to those in need. Their efforts were essential in maintaining access for emergency services and ensuring the safety of the community.

Public communication played a pivotal role in our response. Using the website, social media, and press networks, consistent and reliable information was issued to help communities prepare and respond effectively. This ensured that residents could take appropriate actions to stay safe. 

Ongoing response and clean-up operations

The response and clean-up operations continued, with more reports being received in the days following the storm and ongoing tree works. Public buildings, while not severely damaged, are undergoing repairs to roof tiles, flashing, and gutters while fencing at Gullane Primary School is also being repaired. Buildings remain open during works ensuring minimal disruption to services.

Community support and resilience

Some residents faced power outages with around 2000 homes affected at the peak and some homes remaining without power as late as Wednesday morning, five days after the red warning came into place. The British Red Cross had a presence in Innerwick to provide residents with blankets, hot drinks and the offer of general support while SPEN arranged a food truck in other areas to provide a hot food to those still impacted by power outages.