The storm of 31 January to 1 February 1953 and its impact on Scotland

The storm of 31 January to 1 February 1953 is probably the most devastating to have affected Scotland over the last 500 years. The storm was caused by a deep depression that crossed Scotland between the Orkney and Shetland Isles. The storm generated a series of coastal and inland hazards including flooding, erosion, destruction to coastal defences and extensive wind damage. The severity of the storm can be judged by the type and distribution of the impacts that were felt in many locations throughout Scotland. The storm also caused nineteen fatalities and numerous injuries.