Bitter Cold Leaves Thousands in Shetland Shivering Without Power
Freezing Temps Force Power Struggles
Temperatures plummet to a biting -1°C across Shetland, plunging 2,800 homes into darkness and freezing families’ nights. As of 5:30pm, power cuts affected Voe, Whalsay, Brae, Yell, and the West Mainland, with engineers warning that full restoration might drag on until the weekend.
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) revealed “extensive damage” from snow and ice to overhead cables. The bitter cold is hampering access to damaged sites, delaying repairs.
Resilience Minister Rings Alarm
“It’s clear that many properties will be without power for days,” said Keith Brown, lead minister for resilience. “I urge everyone to stay home, keep warm, check on neighbours, and stay updated through local radio or social media.”
Engineers Battle Harsh Conditions
Mark Macdonald, SSEN’s head for Shetland, said teams have been grinding away since dawn, reconnecting roughly 1,000 homes today alone. A 70-strong mainland support crew is en route as travel restrictions ease.
Severe Weather Paralyses Scotland
- Bitter cold hits record lows, with Braemar, Aberdeenshire recording a chilling -17.3°C for two nights running.
- All Shetland schools shut on Tuesday, alongside several Aberdeenshire closures.
- Roads coated in ice leave millions struggling to travel safely.
- The RAC reports a 50% surge in breakdown calls — over 7,500 motorists assisted on Monday alone.
- The AA warns many rural and suburban roads remain dangerously untreated and impassable.
Emergency Services Adapt
The Lerwick Coastguard Rescue Team deployed their mobile VHF mast to boost emergency comms in remote spots, crucial as the Met Office extends a yellow snow and ice warning over northern Scotland until Friday noon.
With roads treacherous and power still out for thousands, authorities urge extreme caution. Stay safe, stay warm, and keep tuned for updates.
