Scottish farmers have been praised for their “heroic” efforts to clear roads during Storm Floris and help restore services across the Aberdeenshire.
Gordon and Bouchang MP Harriet Cross praised their dedication after up to 90 miles of winds swept the northeast, causing widespread disruption.
The region is Scotland’s most intense hit, with several major routes closed due to fallen trees and debris, including A96, A947 and A90 north of Ellon.
In response, local farmers were mobilized to help eliminate obstacles, allowing engineers to begin power recovery to thousands of homes and businesses. The Turriff show was also forced to close early due to conditions worsening.
The Scotland and Southern Power Network (SSEN) describes Storm Floris as “the most harmful summer storm in recent memory,” with roughly 50,000 properties remaining at the peak of the storm remaining without power.
Miss Cross praised the “amazing community spirit” shown throughout Aberdeenshire in the aftermath of Storm Floris. “Once again, our community is coming together when we need it the most,” she said.
She highlighted how local farmers were in crisis. “Our farmers have seen our farmers to remove fallen trees and debris from the roads, keeping the Aberdeenshire moving, and helping engineers recover power during the stormy flora.”
She also praised others who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. “I also want to acknowledge the grand work of brave engineers, council workers and merchants who worked all night in the wild to restore the Northeast and Northeast lights.”
Looking back at the broader impact of the storm, Miss Cross added: “Some of the situation people faced during the storm Floris were horrifying and I was relieved that there appeared to be no reports of serious casualties.”
She said the recovery efforts will take time and said, “The cleanup work from this storm will probably last for several days.
“Our agriculture and rural communities always come together during these difficult times,” she said.
