Bealert forthe Beast fromEast

Perthshire residents have been asked to keep an eye on vulnerable neighbours as the area prepares to be hit by a Siberian storm dubbed ‘The Beast from the East’ later this week.

The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for today and Thursday and a more severe amber warning for Wednesday - and Perthshire will be right in the centre of the affected area.

This means heavy snow showers are expected across the region on Wednesday and travel delays on roads are likely, potentially stranding some vehicles and passengers.

Amber warnings also indicate that some delays and cancellations to rail and air travel are likely and there will be a good chance some of Perthshire’s rural communities could become cut off.

Power cuts are likely and other services, such as mobile phones, may be affected.

A Met Office spokesperson explained: “Over the next couple of days, snow showers will not be too heavy, but there’s the potential that people will wake up to as much as 10cm of snow or more on Tuesday, during

PKAVS Carers Hub manager Raymond Jamieson said: “For older residents and those who have mobility issues, the cold weather can make carrying out daily tasks difficult, be sure to stay in touch with those around you and ask for help if needed.

“We would encourage communities to look out for one another during the wintry weather and to offer help and support to those who might need it.

“If you think that you might struggle to get out because of the conditions, make sure that you have a supply of food in your home and that your heating is working well.

“Remember that the conditions could be hazardous, so be vigilant if you are out and about.”

The PA contacted Perth and Kinross Council, however the local authority were unable to respond before yesterday’s print deadline.