The A970 North Road is currently CLOSED to all through traffic at Holmsgarth, Lerwick and road diversions are in place.
*** Update 9am - Holmsgarth Road is now OPEN again to through traffic. Diversion signs have been removed. Thanks to all road users for avoiding this area while emergency services attended. ***
During high winds overnight, significant damage has been caused to the roof of a large commercial property near Lerwick Ferry Terminal. The road will remain closed until the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service determine that the structure of the building is safe. This may take some time.
The nearby residential Old North Road is open to traffic, for access to and from local properties only.
Diversion signs have been placed at roundabouts near Jim's Garage and at Co-op Supermarket. All traffic to and from Lerwick must use the A970 South Road while this diversion is in place. The diversionary route is via the Brig O'Fitch and the A9073 (Black Gaet) road.
These diversions are also expected to cause delays on public bus services, until the road reopens.
Wind gusts of 84mph were recorded in Lerwick around midnight last night. Winds have now eased and temperatures are now rising above freezing. Roads remain wet and slushy in places but are passable with care.