Flash floods raise a storm for climate change action

CHAOS: Warning comes as massive clean-up follows downpours on Monday

Flash flooding across Scotland this week shows the need for real action on climate change, Scottish Greens MSP Mark Ruskell has said.

The warning came as a massive clean-up swung into action in Fife yesterday in the wake of the chaos caused by Monday’s downpours.

Fife College, evacuated when ceiling panels crashed to the floor as water poured into the building, will remain closed for the rest of the week to allow for repairs.

It is hoped it will be able to reopen on Monday but an update will be provided at the end of the week.

Greek student Evelina Papadopoulou, 18, said she was almost struck by a metrelong panel as she stood in reception.

Her mother Grace, from Roysth, said: “They told everyone to get out of reception and a few minutes later they sounded the fire alarm.”

Parts of Kirkcaldy Galleries also remained shut yesterday as staff assessed the damage caused to items in the basement, and householders and business people across the region have been left counting the cost.

Meanwhile, dramatic footage has emerged of water pouring through the ceiling at Farmfoods in Leven, as members of the public did their shopping.

The store closed as a result of the incident but reopened yesterday.

Mr Ruskell yesterday won concessions from the Scottish Government as a new climate change bill passes through parliament.

Climate secretary Roseanna Cunningham agreed that ministers will report quickly any time Scotland misses its emissions targets.

Mr Ruskell said: “It is midsummer and, while in Scotland we have seen flash flooding, across Europe children are being warned to stay indoors amid predictions of an unprecedented heatwave.

“Edinburgh saw half a month’s rain in three hours, while in Stirling someone was filmed doing the backstroke along Port Street.”

He added: “Climate change is already having an impact on our infrastructure, economy and services.

“That’s why I’m pleased that the Scottish Government has agreed to report quickly any time Scotland misses emissions targets.”

Picture: Ken Jack. Cars negotiate floodwater on the A921 at Dalgety Bay in Fife.