Storm Gerrit causing power cuts across Scotland as over 27,000 homes impacted by blackouts

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Over 27,000 properties have been hit by power cuts in the north of Scotland as Storm Gerrit continues to cause chaos across the country.

Weather conditions have been more severe than forecast on Wednesday, with galeforce winds moving across from Argyll and the southern Highlands before impacting the Angus and Aberdeenshire coast and inland areas across the north east.

Winds gusts have already reached over 80mph with a yellow weather warning remaining in place until midnight and further disruption expected.

But the winds coupled with heavy rain and snow, has already led to damage on the electricity network by fallen trees, branches, and other debris.Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) say they have been able to successfully restore supplies to almost 8,500 properties but 18,500 are still without power.Teams have made significant progress in restoring power to customers, however, due to the widespread extent of the damage, ongoing adverse weather conditions, they have warned that full network restoration will take time.Some customers in rural areas may be off supply for up to 48 hours and SSEN are contacting vulnerable customers who could be without power for a longer period.Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team.All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in!If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'.We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and