Shetland businesses flooded by 'biblical' rain

Businesses in Shetland were flooded by “biblical rain” that turned streets into rivers on Thursday.

More than 22mm of rain has fallen in Lerwick in the last 24 hours. Those working in the town told STV News the extreme downpour lasted about 15 minutes and took them by surprise.

“The brewery is like a tin echo chamber; it was an absolute cacophony,” said Lerwick Brewery head brewer Johnny Sandison.

“It was absolutely biblical. I’ve never seen rain like that before. It looked like it was bouncing six feet high.

“The roads looked like angry rivers and when cars came up the bend it made massive splashes like waves going over the height of other cars.”

The worst of the flooding affected businesses around Commercial Street and Esplanade. Shetland Islands Council said it was working to help those impacted and clear roads.

This isn’t the first time flash flooding has hit the Peerie Shop and Cafe, which sits at one of the lowest points in the town.

“We know it happens, but this time was very quick,” owner Emma told STV News.

“We’ve lost a day of trading, but we managed to keep it out of the shop and we keep things off the floor.”

“We’re all cleaned up and dry and ready for business tomorrow.”

The cafe manager’s dog Merlin was luckily in his preferred sitting spot on a bench when the deluge hit.

“He didn’t want to get off, but he’s back and he managed to remain very dry,” Emma said.

A small landslip has also blocked the road between Garderhouse and Reawick, on the west side of Shetland.

It comes ahead of yellow weather warnings due to come into force in advance of Storm Boelo’s arrival this weekend.

Shetland Islands Council spokesperson: “Our roads operatives are working in several areas, with drains on the Veensgarth brae and at the three lane section north of Lerwick currently being cleared.

“The added impact of high tides has meant flooding around the Esplanade and Harrison Square in Lerwick, with sandbags being supplied on request.

“Motorists are being asked to take extra care in the meantime, and drive to the current conditions.”