Scotland Braces for Third Storm as Cleanup Continues

Scotland is preparing for a third storm in as many days, with new weather warnings issued for heavy rain and strong winds. The Met Office anticipates gusts of up to 65 mph (105 km/h) in coastal communities in the southwest on Monday evening and into Tuesday morning. These winds are expected to be accompanied by heavy rain at times.

This latest weather system, which has not yet been named, is not expected to be as disruptive as Storm Ciara or Storm Dennis, which preceded it. The next name on the storm list for the 2026/2027 season is Chloe.

Communities are still dealing with the aftermath of Storm Ciara, which brought widespread flooding and wind gusts of up to 85 mph (137 km/h) on Monday. A 60-year-old man died after being struck by a falling tree in Dumfries and Galloway on Sunday. As of Monday evening, approximately 15,000 homes remained without power, primarily in the north of Scotland, according to Scottish and Southern Energy Networks (SSEN). Scottish Power Energy Networks (Spen) reported that most of its 50,000 affected customers in Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway were expected to have power restored by early Tuesday morning, with nearly 100,000 customers having had their supply reconnected over the weekend.

Environmental Warnings

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) has issued an amber risk of flooding for the northern and Western Isles, as well as Caithness and Sutherland. The agency also warned of volatile conditions, including large waves and strong winds, along the southwest coast and in Argyll, affecting areas such as the Solway Firth and Firth of Clyde, with flooding of low-lying land anticipated.

In response to a Sepa warning, flood gates on the Caol and Lochyside flood protection scheme near Fort William were closed. Police Scotland has maintained a high risk of disruption due to the expected poor weather conditions on Tuesday. Assistant Chief Constable Mark Sutherland noted that disruption is likely to extend beyond the official weather warning period due to fallen trees and other storm damage.

Officials have acknowledged the ongoing challenges posed by the prolonged severe weather. Social Justice and Housing Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville urged local authorities to review their preparedness and assured that all possible measures are being taken. She also encouraged individuals to ensure their households are resilient and to support neighbors and friends.

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