SCOTS are being warned that forests may be dangerous after Storm Eowyn, which weakened trees across the region.
Following last week's severe weather warning and the storm's passage with winds reaching up to 90mph, Scottish Forestry is urging caution when entering forested areas.
“We would like to remind the public that entering forests at the moment could be highly dangerous as trees may be weakened or unstable – please follow local guidance and be extra vigilant,” said a Scottish Forestry spokesperson.
The organisation highlighted that the evaluation of the damage to forests and woodlands following the storm "will take a number of weeks".
“As winds of 90mph winds occurred in parts of Scotland, we are now following the guidance and procedures laid out in our Windblow Contingency Plan. This provides a framework for action when there is a potential for significant windblow.
“There are however some factors, including wind direction and the variable average wind speeds across Scotland during the storm, that may partially mitigate the scale of impact.
"In the coming days we will be assessing the situation through discussions with a range of stakeholders and partners, and if it is required, by using tools such as satellite imagery."
For emergency felling permissions, the Scottish Forestry website should be consulted, as it provides guidance for applicants and contact details for local conservancy offices.
