Train services cancelled after Storm Caroline poses threat to life

TRAIN SERVICES were cancelled after forecasters warned Storm Caroline could cause danger to life.

The Met Office has raised the level of its weather warning from yellow to amber “be prepared” for northern Scotland yesterday, warning of gusts of up to 90mph. Some train services in northern and western parts of Scotland have been suspended, with other transport likely to be disrupted while there may also be power cuts.

ScotRail Alliance infrastructure director David Dickson said: “This isn’t a decision that we have taken lightly, but the safety and security of our staff and customers must come first.”

Services have been affected between Aberdeen and Inverness, Inverness and WIck, Inverness and Kyle of Lochalsh as well some Glasgow Queen Street routes to the west coast.

The strong wind warning is valid from 6am until 11.55pm on today, with an amber warning for northern Scotland.

A yellow “be aware” warning is in force for the southern half of Scotland and parts of the north of Northern Ireland between 6am and 6pm as well.

“The Met Office said gusts of 70mph to 80mph are expected widely in northern Scotland, with winds of up to 90mph possible in exposed areas.

It said: “Flying debris is likely and could lead to injuries or danger to life. Some damage to buildings is possible, such as tiles blowing off roofs.”

Meanwhile, production has been shut down on a North Sea platform after Storm Caroline safety fears forced all workers to be removed. CNR International made the decision as the Met Office predicts today will see wind gusts of up to 90mph and large waves.

A total of 69 of the 159 staff on Ninian South, about 240 miles from Aberdeen, were taken off the structure as a precaution on Tuesday.