A warning has been issued to residents in the Donside area of Aberdeen as the River Don is expected to burst its banks later tonight.
The river has reached the highest water level on record, according to SEPA.
Council officials have advised those living in lower residential areas close to the River Don, and in particular the Grandholm area, to seriously consider evacuating their homes as water levels continue to rise across the city.
Please don't travel by car tonight. Folk are getting trapped in their cars in flooded areas. Check weather reports overnight and in the am
— NorthEastPolice (@NorthEPolice) January 7, 2016
Residents are advised to seek shelter with friends and family where they can, or alternatively, a respite centre has been set up at the Bridge of Don Academy.
A list of essentials items and advice has been drawn up for residents taking shelter at Bridge of Don Academy:
- Change of warm clothing and blankets
- Toiletries and everyday medicines
- If appropriate, baby clothing, nappies and associated toiletries
Special foods - Important documents, immediate valuables and important telephone numbers of friends and relatives
- Baskets or cages and leads for pets
- Personal items such as glasses, mobile telephone, keys, cash or credit cards
Make sure fires are out and turn off gas, water and electricity. Allow adequate ventilation prior to turning them back on
Secure your property
As a precaution, alternative accommodation has been found for vulnerable adults living in the three affected care homes in the Grandholm area (Woodside, Persley and Grandholm).
Sandbags are available for all residents within the city affected by the floods at 3 locations; West Tullos, Bucksburn and Culter depots.
— Abdn City Council (@AberdeenCC) January 7, 2016
Social care staff have arranged to open Rosehill Day Centre as a rest centre for older or vulnerable adults living in their own homes who may be affected by the water levels and whom we may need to evacuate. Officials are working to identify these people to offer support.
Other areas across the city have also been affected, particularly those located near burns. Sandbags are available for all residents within the city at three locations; the West Tullos, Bucksburn and Culter depots.
Residents with concerns should contact environmental services on 0845 6080919 or 01224 219281. An emergency plan which has been adopted over the past two weeks has been activated. Council officers advise residents to stay indoors tonight where possible.