Day: January 2, 2023

Week of unsettled weather as SEPA warns of surface water flooding

Scotland is set for a week of unsettled weather as the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), Scotland’s flood forecasting and warning authority, is advising Scots and visitors to Scotland to keep updated, be mindful of potential disruption, and plan ahead for any travel across the period to the weekend.

The guidance comes after last week’s significant flooding in the run-up to New Year which saw Scotland’s environment protection agency issue 10 Regional flood alerts, 29 local flood warnings and a severe flood warning in place for Dumfries.  Impacts across the country were significant, with levels at the River Nith being the highest ever recorded, and higher than Storm Frank in 2015 and flooding in December 1982.

Across the coming days, prolonged rainfall on Tuesday and Wednesday, combined with melting snow, is likely to see minor river and surface water flooding, across the country, with the potential for impact on transport routes. 

Whilst peak river levels in Southern Scotland, including the Tweed and the Nith, are expected to be well below those experienced last week, given the saturated nature of the ground, minor disruption is likely on some transport routes with isolated property flooding in places.

Marc Becker, Flood Duty Manager at the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), said: “Across New Year’s week we’ll see Scotland face a further period of unsettled weather.   

“Prolonged rainfall on Tuesday a”nd Wednesday, combined with melting snow, is likely to see minor river and surface water flooding, across the country, with the potential for impact on transport routes. 

“Whilst peak river levels in Southern Scotland, including the Tweed and the Nith, are expected to be well below those experienced last week, given the saturated nature of the ground, minor disruption is likely on some transport routes with isolated property flooding in places.

“Across the week we’ll see Scots and visitors to Scotland out and about, travelling home or returning to work. We’re urging people to keep updated, register for SEPA’s free Floodline messaging service, be mindful of potential disruption, and plan ahead for any travel across the period to the weekend.”

Staying informed

Be prepared and stay safe

  • Check Floodline – visit floodline.sepa.org.uk
  • Don’t walk through flood water – 15cm of fast flowing water could be enough to knock you off your feet and hazards can be hidden under the water.
  • Drive with care, and do not travel through deep fast flowing water. It only takes 30cm of fast flowing water to move an average family sized car.
  • If you’re walking beside rivers be extra careful of wet footpaths and small watercourses.
  • Consider deploying flooding protection products if required.

What’s the difference between a Flood Alert and a Flood Warning?

We use forecast weather information provided by the Met Office combined with our own observation of rainfall and river levels and advanced hydrological modelling to provide advance warning of flooding.

  • Regional Flood Alerts are early advice that flooding is possible across a wider geographical area. The purpose of the Alerts is to make people aware of the risk of flooding and be prepared. We normally issue them 12 to 24 hours in advance of the possibility of flooding.
  • Flood Warnings are more locally specific and are issued for areas where we have gauges on rivers to measure the exact river height. They are issued at shorter notice when we are more certain that a specific area will be affected.

NHS Lothian issues advice to public on rise of respiratory viruses

An increasing number of respiratory viruses in Lothian is heaping extra pressure on the hospital system.

Cases of Flu are surging and there are still high levels of COVID and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), as well as norovirus, causing hospitals and GPs in Lothian to be stretched beyond capacity.

Calum Campbell, Chief Executive, NHS Lothian, said the sector as a whole was already experiencing significant pressures because of an increase in emergency patients and large numbers of delayed discharge patients, before this latest increase in infection rates.

He added: “Our teams across the health and social care system are facing sustained and relentless challenge. The system is under horrendous pressure and the challenges our teams are facing are uncharted.

“We are experiencing more cases of infection – flu, COVID and RSV, as well as norovirus – than ever before.

“In order to maintain our patient flow through the hospital and retain beds for the most urgent of cases, we need to support people to go home quicker after their treatment and reduce any preventable admissions. That is where the public can help.

“Please take sensible precautions to prevent infection, especially if you have underlying health conditions or plan to be with those that do””

The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, St John’s Hospital, the Western General Hospital and the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People are all at full capacity.

Dona Milne, Director of Public Health and Health Policy, NHS Lothian, urged people to help reduce the spread of infections to protect themselves and the most vulnerable in their communities.

She said: “Although they can be mild infections for many, RSV and Flu can be extremely serious for some people causing them to require urgent hospital treatment. We have now reached extraordinary levels of flu in Scotland that we haven’t seen for many years.”

“We are asking anyone who has cold or flu like symptoms to help limit the spread of infection and reduce the chances of passing it to someone who will become very unwell.

“Stay at home if you feel unwell. And if you do have to go out, please wear a mask. People should also remember to wash their hands, and cough or sneeze into a tissue and bin it.”

People in Lothian are also being reminded to stock up their medicine cabinets with paracetamol and cold remedies so they can treat common illnesses at home.

Anyone who has cold type symptoms, such as a runny nose or mild cough, or who has a sore throat without a temperature and can eat and drink, is likely to have a viral illness and does not need to contact their GP. They should drink plenty of fluids and rest and get additional help and advice from NHS Inform or their local pharmacy.

The most up to date information on Strep A can be found at:

https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/streptococcus-a-strep-a/

Morrisons kickstarts 2023 with price cuts on it’s Savers range

– Over 50 per cent of the range has been cut in price – 

Morrisons is cutting 130 prices across its entry-level products to help customers’ money go further throughout the January squeeze.

The cuts include important fresh and frozen products for family meals and lunch boxes, together with cupboard essentials and household products to help customers across their shop. 

Morrisons has invested over £16 million to make these cuts as customers look for help on their weekly shop after the expense of Christmas and as the cost of living crisis continues to impact household grocery budgets. 

Fresh products such as bacon, cooked chicken and cheese which can be used to make hearty meals have had their prices reduced as well as fruit and vegetables including apples, pears and potatoes. 

Frozen ready meals, fish fingers and prawns have been cut along with cupboard fillers like tins of beans, chopped tomatoes and tuna chunks.  Household essentials such as laundry powder, washing up liquid and dishwasher tablets have also seen their prices slashed as have toothbrushes, toothpaste and sanitary products. 

Morrisons entry level range has 263 products, 28 of which were new additions within the last six months.  This month the range will grow further with the introduction of cherry tomatoes, easy peel oranges, green beans and mixed peppers.

David Potts, Chief Executive, Morrisons, said: “Our Savers range offers customers great value on the products they buy every day.

“We want to do all we can to help when it comes to the cost of grocery shopping and by investing in the range and cutting the prices further, our customers will see a noticeable impact on their budgets at a time when they really need it.”

Morrisons price cuts will be communicated to customers via TV, radio, press, digital display and social media as well as email and online activity.

On the website, the Savers range will be highlighted on the homepage under Morrisons ‘More Way to Save’ section and until January 22nd, the seasonal aisle in Morrisons stores will feature displays of the ambient Savers products in one place to help customers shop the breadth of the range, while the fresh and frozen items will have prominent displays in their aisles to help customers identify them. 

SAVERS PRICE CUTS: BREAKFAST EXAMPLESWASNOW
MORRISONS SAVERS WHITE LOAF MEDIUM SLICED 720g£0.45£0.39
MORRISONS SAVERS ORANGE MARMALADE 454G£0.52£0.33
MORRISONS SAVERS ORANGE JUICE FROM CONCENTRATE 1L£0.89£0.75
MORRISONS SAVERS MUESLI 1KG£1.39£1.25
SAVERS PRICE CUTS: MID-WEEK DINNER EXAMPLESWASNOW
MORRISONS SAVERS ITALIAN STYLE HARD CHEESE 170G£1.70£1.59
MORRISONS SAVERS PASTA SAUCE 440G£0.57£0.39
MORRISONS SAVERS LONG GRAIN RICE 1KG£0.71£0.48
MORRISONS SAVERS TUNA CHUNKS IN BRINE 145G£0.65£0.55
MORRISONS SAVERS CHILLI CON CARNE 392G£1.49£0.97
MORRISONS SAVERS PLUM TOMATOES IN TOMATO JUICE 400G£0.33£0.28
MORRISONS SAVERS TOMATO KETCHUP 460G£0.79£0.36
MORRISONS SAVERS 10 FISH FINGERS 250G£0.79£0.69
MORRISONS SAVERS BEEF LASAGNE 400G (FROZEN)£0.89£0.75
MORRISONS SAVERS MILD WHITE CHEDDAR 625G£3.19£2.99
MORRISONS SAVERS CHEESE AND TOMATO PIZZA 270G£0.99£0.89
MORRISONS SAVERS SMOKED BACK BACON 250G£1.25£1.12
MORRISONS SAVERS COOKED CHICKEN PIECES 240G£1.99£1.79
SAVERS PRICE CUTS: HOUSEHOLD EXAMPLESWASNOW
MORRISONS ESSENTIALS MEDIUM TOOTHBRUSHES 2 PACK£0.30£0.25
MORRISONS SAVERS BIOLOGICAL LAUNDRY POWDER 3.335KG£3.30£2.69
MORRISONS SAVERS WASHING UP LIQUID 500ML£0.49£0.37

Morrisons entry level range includes ‘Morrisons Savers’, ‘Morrisons Wonky’ in produce and ‘Morrisons Essentials’ in homeware and health & beauty. 

The price cuts are in all of Morrisons 498 supermarkets and the majority of products can be found online.

New for 2023, visit Scotland’s best kept secret with Rabbies

Explore unspoilt beaches, abundant wildlife, and beautifully quaint streets on a visit to … Scotland.

It doesn’t get bonnier than the country’s best-kept secret, the magnificent South West coast, which is why Rabbie’s (www.rabbies.com) is offering a new, unforgettable two-day tour to the hidden gem.

Journeying from the grandest forest in the UK to a castle scarred by the brutal battles of the past, Rabbie’s Scenic South West of Scotland tour encompasses both the stunning beauty and fascinating history of Scotland, and is available to book now with tours starting in May 2023.

On the two-day tour, visitors will navigate the historically rich and environmentally stunning region. Head deep into the largest forest in the UK, Galloway Forest, to look up at the dark skies and be left in awe at the stunning night sky above.

Travel to Scotland’s most southern point, the Mull of Galloway, to enjoy amazing views of the peninsula’s wildlife and cliffs. Trek through the ancient woodland and mountain vistas located in the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere. With memorable views of the lochs and mountains, enjoy this peaceful walk through a truly untouched wilderness.

Join Rabbie’s Two-Day Scenic South West of Scotland tour departing from Glasgow from £145 per person.

For more information about Rabbie’s and its tour offerings, visit www.rabbies.com.

Winter vehicle survival guide: Get your car ready for the cold 

Drivers are being warned to check their car components to ensure their vehicle survives the harshness of winter weather. 

Motoring experts from LeaseCar.uk are urging drivers to follow their winter vehicle survival guide by checking the engine’s coolness and monitoring oil levels to ensure their safety on the road. 

With heavy rain and snowstorms expected over the next few months, the coldness of winter weather can worsen the condition of car components quicker. 

Driving in winter can already be quite a challenge for motorists, but following this guide can help to ensure motorists are protected and don’t have to worry about their car breaking down. 

Tim Alcock from LeaseCar.uk said: “Winter can be one of the toughest times for drivers on the road as the disruptive change in weather can damage a vehicle’s durability. 

Image credit: Pexels 

“Winter-proofing your car by regularly checking tyre pressure and knowing what to look out for when the car battery is damaged can not only prevent you from serious harm but other drivers too. 

“This useful guide will help motorists prepare for the winter cold and which noticeable red flags to look out for when hitting the roads.” 

Here is LeaseCar.uk’s winter vehicle guide to keep safe and protect your car: 

  1. 1. Tyres 

In colder weather, tyre pressure tends to drop drastically and if you notice your car starting to sway, this could be down to underinflation. Tyre pressure decreases every 10 degrees, so it’s vital to check the levels every two weeks and inflate when needed, otherwise it can lead to difficulties when braking and accelerating. 

  1. 2. Oil  

Oil tends to thicken in chilly temperatures, which can make it difficult to pump through the engine. It’s recommended to use 5W30 oil in winter to help with thinning the oil to ensure the car runs smoothly. 

  1. 3. Car battery 

Turn on the car for a few minutes before setting off to decrease the chances of the batteries stalling. Once the temperature drops, less power will be omitted which can make it difficult to start the vehicle up in the cold winter mornings. If the problem repeatedly happens, immediately take it to a mechanic, as it could mean the battery has broken from the cold and will need replacing. 

  1. 4. Bulbs 

As the days get darker throughout winter, make sure the front lights and brake lights are fully working before setting off on your journey. Lights not only give us a clear view of the road but they ensure we’re visible to other drivers. Failure to check your lights can lead to a fixed fine if your brake lights aren’t working; if broken visit the nearer garage as soon as possible. 

  1. 5. Heating 

The feeling of warming up in the car when the weather is freezing outside is indescribable, however it can become quite easy for the heating to stop working during these conditions. This will mean there is a fault with the engine coolant, which could be blocked or even worse, a leak, which would mean it needs to be taken in for repairs. 

https://www.theaa.com/breakdown-cover/advice/car-heater-issues

Community groups urged to apply for Scotmid Community Orchard funding

An environmental and wellbeing initiative that will benefit almost 200 communities across Scotland has been launched by Scotmid.

‘Scotmid Community Orchard’ funding will allow fruit trees and bushes to be planted across the communities Scotmid serves. The sites, of five or more plants, will then form part of a Scotland-wide orchard of thousands of trees and bushes. 

The retailer is seeking a group near each of its stores to plant five or more fruit trees or bushes within a community space. They will award £200 to each successful applicant, to fund the purchase of plants.

The initiative has been created to encourage people to work together, increasing physical activity and improving local environments.

Orchards offer volunteering opportunities throughout the year as well as the chance to learn new skills, create habitats for wildlife and produce an array of edible produce. 

John Brodie, Chief Executive of Scotmid, said: “We love the idea that people planting fruit trees or bushes in Edinburgh not only benefits those close to them but allows them to be part of something so much bigger – an orchard spanning hundreds of miles weaving through our Scottish communities.

“We all recognise the value that green spaces bring. Scotmid is thrilled to provide the funding for our communities to plant, grow, learn, and let nature thrive.”

Karen Davidson from Social Farms and Gardens, who are providing advice to budding growers, said: “We are so excited to see Scotmid leading the way, creating a network of micro-orchards across Scotland through this funding.

“Community orchards are part of a local food system. Promoting the health benefits of fresh produce and outdoor exercise to people of all age groups, orchards are excellent places for people to come together and enjoy the outdoors, whilst providing a focal point for community activities.”

Scotmid is seeking one group near each of its stores across Scotland to plant five or more fruit trees or bushes.

Edinburgh groups are encouraged to apply by visiting: 

https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/communityorchard/

Applications close on 20th January 2023.

 ‘One stop shop’ website to help people struggling with the cost of living crisis

The Scottish Government has created a ‘one stop shop’ website aimed at helping people in Edinburgh who are struggling with the cost of living crisis.

The website includes guidance on the different kinds of support available, from helping families and households meet rising energy, housing and other costs, to details around accessing Scottish and UK social security payments, including online benefit calculators as well as advice around improving overall health and wellbeing.

It’s important to acknowledge the added stress that money worries can bring and the impact that this can have on your health, both mentally and physically. The website includes information on the support people can access such as the NHS24 Mental Health Hub (available by dialling 111), Breathing Space which is a confidential helpline available by calling 0800 83 85 87, and nhsinform.scot/mind-to-mind which shares advice from peers.

There is also key information around support with health costs such as eye examinations, glasses, contact lenses and dental treatments.

When it comes to families and financial support, the Scottish Government has allocated almost £3 billion in this financial year to help households face the increased cost of living, including £1bn in providing services and financial support not available elsewhere in the UK.

The winter Bridging Payment has been doubled, meaning the December payment will be £260. All eligible families should make sure they are registered to receive free school meals on the basis of low income in order to receive the payment. If they register between now and end of school term they will receive the payment in January.

The Scottish Child Payment has also been increased to £25 a week which can be paid to families with children under the age of 16 who live in Scotland and qualify for certain reserved benefits. There is no limit on the number of children that families can apply for.

Cost of living crisis – Cost of Living Support Scotland (campaign.gov.scot)

Shona Robison, Social Justice Secretary, said: “I know that people are struggling with the cost of living crisis right now and may not know where to turn for help. Our cost of living website is a trustworthy online resource with information on the wide range of vital support available.

“No one should feel alone in this crisis and this website, along with our campaign, aims to encourage people to find out if they are eligible for the extensive support available to access the advice they need.

“We want everyone to get all the financial support and help that is available so I would encourage people to apply for the payments they are entitled to – it might be just the lifeline that is needed right now”.

Cost of living crisis – Cost of Living Support Scotland (campaign.gov.scot)