6 days ago
Storm Floris forces Edinburgh Fringe to cancel events amid amber weather warning
Edinburgh Fringe Festival has been forced to cancel several different events due to the high winds expected from Storm Floris tomorrow.
Several Edinburgh Fringe Festival events have been cancelled as Storm Floris is set to sweep across Scotland tomorrow, bringing winds of up to 90mph.
In response to the severe weather, the Met Office has issued two warnings for Scotland, including a serious amber alert covering all areas north of Edinburgh and Glasgow. The warning is in effect from 10am to 10pm on Monday and warns of risk of disruption and dangerous conditions.
Fringe-goers are being warned to prepare for potential cancellations, especially for outdoor performances. Fringe by the Sea, held in the coastal town of North Berwick, has already called off several events as strong winds are expected to bring water onto the land.
Meanwhile, the Ceilidh Session, which is part of the Edinburgh International Festival have also been cancelled after Edinburgh Council announced the closure of Princes Street Gardens due to safety concerns.
A statement released by a spokesperson for the Edinburgh Fringe, stated: "There is an amber weather warning in place for Edinburgh from 10:00-22:00 on Mon 04 Aug. Should a show be cancelled our Customer Services team will be in touch with customers who have purchased tickets.
The statement continued: "This is an evolving storm, and we will update advice and guidance throughout the day tomorrow."
Although some attempting to visit Edinburgh for the Fringe might find it difficult to get there as ScotRail has announced they will stop various services because of the "extremely intense" weather.
Storm Floris is expected to be an unusually disruptive summer storm, bringing powerful winds and periods of heavy rain to Scotland on Monday, as well as posing a "danger to life" according to weather experts.
The high winds are expected to bring large waves and launch debris, which could end up causing injuries. Additionally, the powerful winds could cause significant damage to buildings and rooftops, and transport authorities may be forced to shut down roads and bridges for safety.
There's also a risk of power outages, potentially leaving some homes and businesses without electricity if the storm disrupts the supply.
A Met Office spokesperson stated: "Storm Floris will bring a spell of unusually strong west or northwesterly winds to much of Scotland during Monday. Gusts of 50 to 70 mph are expected for many parts, and are likely to reach 80 to 90 mph on some exposed coasts, hills and bridges."
'Western coastal areas will see the highest gusts between late morning and early afternoon, the strongest winds then transferring to northeastern Scotland by late afternoon and early evening," they continued.
'Driving in these conditions can be dangerous, for yourself and other road users. If you must drive, you can do this more safely by taking the following actions drive slowly to minimise the impact of wind gusts, be aware of high sided vehicles/caravans on more exposed roads and be cautious when overtaking, and give cyclists, motorcyclists, lorries, and buses more room than usual."
'Being outside in high winds makes you more vulnerable to injury," they added.
The Met Office urged: "Stay indoors as much as possible. If you do go out, try not to walk, or shelter, close to buildings and trees. In advance of high winds, check for loose items outside your home and secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences."
Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community!
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 adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like.
To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
