Phenomenal waves destroy lighthouse wall
MONDAY’S exceptionally high seas have destroyed around 40 metres of the wall protecting the Fair Isle South lighthouse.
The 45 feet waves, some of the highest ever witnessed on the island, have also caused some damage to the building.
Island resident and Fair Isle blogger Tommy Hyndman said it was a frightening experience standing on a hill nearby and filming as the lighthouse stood exposed to an enormous sea.
“It is amazing to see the power of the ocean, and at the same time it is sad to see a cultural spot like the lighthouse damaged.”
He added that the lighthouse’s engine room was flooded and a window broken. Representatives from the Northern Lighthouse Board are due on the island to assess the damage.
“I have been out all day on Tuesday photographing all the damage, and I am just about to upload another blog to my website,” Hyndman added.
On Monday, the Met Office had warned of “phenomenal” waves in the Fair Isle area.
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