Aberdeenshire has experienced a second consecutive day of substantial rainfall and flooding, leading to three individuals being rescued from submerged vehicles. The incidents occurred yesterday amidst heightened weather alerts from national agencies.
The region was significantly impacted on Thursday by a rare Met Office ‘amber’ weather warning, indicating a “danger to life” and a heightened likelihood of severe disruption. This warning typically signifies the possibility of travel delays, road and rail closures, power cuts, and risks to life and property, advising individuals to reconsider plans and take protective measures. A less severe ‘yellow’ warning remained in effect for Aberdeen city and most of Aberdeenshire until 11:59 PM last night, prompting residents to “be aware” of potential low-level impacts and travel disruptions.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), responsible for flood forecasting and warning across Scotland, also issued flood warnings for the north-east, including Aberdeenshire.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) confirmed their involvement in two separate water rescue operations. In the first incident, two individuals were extracted from a minibus on the B977 near Kintore. The rescue commenced around 8:30 AM on Thursday.
A spokesperson for the fire service detailed the operation: “Operations control mobilised one fire appliance and a specialist water rescue unit to the scene. Two people were removed from the van by firefighters and taken to a place of safety. Crews have now left the area after ensuring it was safe.”
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Concurrently, a separate rescue unfolded near Banchory on the B976, where one person was assisted from a stranded car.
The spokesperson further added: “We were alerted at 8:32 AM on Thursday to reports of a vehicle in flood water near the B976 in Banchory, Aberdeenshire. Operations control mobilised two fire appliances and specialist water rescue units to the area. One casualty was removed from the car and guided to a place of safety. They were then checked over at the scene by the Scottish Ambulance Service.”
The Scottish Ambulance Service frequently collaborates with the SFRS during flood-related incidents to ensure the well-being of those rescued. The ongoing adverse weather conditions underscore the critical role of coordinated emergency responses and public adherence to official weather and flood warnings in mitigating risks during severe meteorological events.
