Firefighters attend flood incident

Severe weather cases chaos in Kilsyth

Severe wind and rain brought chaos to a part of the town of Kilsyth in North Lanarkshire last night. 

Fire appliances from Strathclyde Fire & Rescue were called out just after 8pm to reports of severe flooding affecting properties on Airdrie Road, Kilsyth. 

The first crew to attend were faced with extreme weather conditions caused by severe rain and wind which initially hampered the operation of removing the rain water from a number of basements. The rain water also had the potential to affect electrical supplies and spread into other properties that were higher on the road. 

As concern grew that the water would enter a nearby factory unit, the Incident Commander requested further assistance with an appliance being dispatched from Kirkintilloch. Strathclyde Fire & Rescue also requested assistance from North Lanarkshire Council's Emergency Planning Officer who immediately assisted with the provision and delivery of sandbags.

 Fire crews, assisted by members of the community, were able to lay the sandbags at properties to assist in diverting the water whilst other firefighters used main pumps and portable pumps to remove the water; greatly assisting in reducing and minimising the damage. Both crews were in attendance for over four hours. 

North Lanarkshire Deputy Area Commander Craig Shaw said: 

"Firefighters were faced with a very severe and worsening situation which was exacerbated by the strong wind and rain. However, due to the sheer tenacity of the Firefighters and members of the local community, they were able to contain the incident and prevent it from escalating further. This was a fine example of partnership working at its best with everyone pulling together for the benefit of the community" 

No further information available.