Operation Snowdrop

Winter weather began to deteriorate from 10 Jan 1955 around Caithness and Sutherland and by 12 Jan, heavy persistent and drifting snow began falling in quantity, cutting off rural communities. The first call for help was received on 15 Jan and RAF Kinloss despatched aircraft to drop hay bales to affected farming communities.

Two Naval helicopters were moved from RNAS Lossiemouth to Wick and HMS Glory and the frigate HMS Urchin were positioned to assist from Loch Eribol.