East Kilbride shopping centre is to remain open today (Friday) so people can access essential services.
EK, East Kilbride said last night management took the decision to open to shoppers despite a number of businesses choosing to shut up shop due to the Met Office’s red weather warning.
Around 4.5 million people got an emergency alert to their phones at 6pm last night as the UK braces to be hit by Storm Eowyn from 10am till 5pm today.
The siren sound, also known as the “Armageddon alert” system, is used in emergencies, such as during Storm Darragh, when over three million people were told to stay indoors to avoid 90mph winds.
Forecasters have urgently warned people to stay at home as winds could reach up to a staggering 100mph, with “flying debris resulting in danger to life”.
There could also be potential power cuts and damage to buildings. The Met Office has warned those in affected areas should avoid travelling and “stay indoors if you can”.
Schools across Scotland have followed advice to close on Friday for the safety of the children and staff.
Posting on their Facebook page, EK, East Kilbride said: “Please note that the town centre will be open tomorrow, Friday, January 24.
“We are aware that a number of businesses are choosing to close as a result of the red weather warning, however, as the centre is home to a number of essential services – including several pharmacies – we have taken the decision to keep our doors open.
“Individual retailers will make their own decision on whether to open or to close, and we would urge shoppers to check with them directly. Contact details for shops can be found here.
“We will be monitoring the situation closely, and will update through the centre’s social media channels if this position changes.
“The red weather warning should not be taken lightly and we note that the authorities have advised the public not to travel if at all possible. Please take care.”
Southwesterly then westerly winds will rapidly increase from west to east Friday mid-morning onwards into the afternoon, with peak gusts of 80-90mph fairly widely and perhaps up to 100mph along exposed western coasts.
A Met Office forecaster said: “This brings the risk of significant disruption to transport and power supplies as well as dangerous conditions outdoors. Winds will gradually ease through Friday evening.”
EK, East Kilbride have been contacted for comment.
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