Approximately 2,400 houses are still without electricity as crews “fight protracted extreme weather conditions.”
Thousands of residents in Shetland face a fourth day without electricity as engineers work to restore supplies despite the danger of further snowfall and frigid temperatures.
Certain 2,400 residences in Voe, Brae, Yell and the West Mainland are still without electricity, and engineers warn that power may not be restored to some premises until the weekend.
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Distribution stated that it was still “battling protracted extreme weather conditions.”
125 individuals are working to restore electricity, and according to SSEN, “this is expected to continue until the end of the week.”
“Depending on weather conditions and travel availability, this may extend into the weekend for some locations,” the statement continued.
The overhead electricity cables were surveyed by helicopters, with some circuits requiring “major rebuilds.”
In the next twenty-four hours, frequent rain, sleet, hail, and snow showers are anticipated to persist.
The Met Office has extended the snow and ice warning for northern Scotland and northeast England until Thursday at 11:59 p.m.
The remainder of the United Kingdom will have low temperatures, scattered patches of sunshine, and isolated instances of freezing fog.
SSEN stated that it was collaborating with various community assistance organizations to ensure that supplies were distributed where they were most needed in Shetland and to install mobile generators in communal locations such as public halls.
Shetland Island Council has asked anyone in need of assistance to reach out.
Emma Macdonald, head of the council, stated: “This is a very difficult period for a great number of people whose houses may be cold and whose food and other supplies may be running low.
I would urge anyone with urgent health or care requirements to contact us, and our team will react to all requests for assistance to the best of our abilities.
Due to the subzero temperatures, poor road access, and power outages, schools in the region will stay closed. Fair Isle Primary School will remain operational as the only school.
Keith Brown, Scotland’s justice minister, is set to visit Shetland on Thursday to speak with those leading efforts to respond to the severe weather and restore power.
