Coastguard and lifeboat crews have been drafted in to assist as police scour the banks of the River Dee for a missing Aberdeen woman.
Moira Morrison, 62, was reported missing from her home in the Mannofield area last night after last being seen at around 3pm in the River Walk area of Garthdee.
Extensive searches were carried out throughout the night involving specialist police resources including the dog unit, Coastguard, Aberdeen inshore lifeboat and the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service.
Inspector Steve McEwan, who is leading the inquiry, said: “A large area has already been searched both on land and water – stretching from Aberdeen Harbour up to the Robert Gordon University – as we continue to establish Moira’s whereabouts.
“This is completely out of character for her and we are obviously growing increasingly concerned for her safety and wellbeing.
“Given the challenging conditions faced by the search teams last night due to the heavy rain and lack of light, these searches will continue today with continued support from Coastguard and using police resources including kayakers and assistance from the force helicopter.”
Mrs Morrison was last seen wearing dark trousers, white trainers and a dark bomber-style jacket. She was carrying a white carrier bag. She is described as 5ft 2in, with a medium build and dyed light brown hair.
Inspector McEwan urged members of the public to allow his team to carry out the search unassisted due to challenging weather conditions in the area.
He added: “The significant rainfall overnight has made some of the terrain challenging and our specialist officers together with coastguard will utilise specialist skills and equipment to access the areas safely and effectively.
“I would ask anyone who may have seen a woman matching Moira’s description in the area of Garthdee shops and Bridge of Dee riverside paths around 3pm yesterday to get in touch – you might have information which could assist.
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said it provided thermal imaging cameras and helped carry out a search in the Garthdee Road area at around 10.50pm.
A spokesman for Aberdeen lifeboat said: “We launched at around noon today following a further request from the Coastguard to renew search operations.
“Our vessel is currently out and searching the area.”
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 if they wish to remain anonymous.
