There were huge delays on most of the city’s main routes including South Street, Tay Street, Glasgow Road and Dunkeld Road. Tail-backs extended well down the A9, with Broxden roundabout unwilling to release any vehicles before some time had passed.

Both bridges reopened for certain vehicles between 9.30 and 10 am. On the Friarton, north-bound traffic was unrestricted and south-bound only able to cross under police convoy.

Meanwhile, a number of Perthshire schools remained closed having fallen victim to the worst storm to hit Scotland for 10 years.

Dunning Primary School and Aberuthven Primary School also kept their gates closed.

Overnight, heavy winds brought down trees throughout Perthshire, affecting many roads.

Firefighters were also called out to a number of properties where the winds were threatening to strip-off roofs, including the Holiday Inn Express in Perth’s Dunkeld Road and Aberfeldy Petrol Station.

They also spent some time at a house in Perth’s Huntingtower Road, helping to dismantle a conservatory that was in danger of blowing away.

Tayside was amongst the areas worst affected by loss of power, with homes throughout Perthshire facing a second evening without power, having been plunged into darkness last night.

Many householders were today hearing it could be late this evening or even tomorrow before they regain power.

More than 20,000 homes throughout Perthshire were affected, with communities including Caputh, Guildtown, Dunning, Errol and St Madoes worst affected.

Glendoick resident Alex Forbes said the Carse community had come together to help everyone through the power cut.

He said he had been visiting elderly residents, handing out small gas stoves and ensuring that everyone was ok.

“Those who have gas hobs and even barbecues have been mucking in so that no-one goes without,” he said.

There was hope for some in the Carse however as power returned to many properties shortly after 12 noon.

David Strachan, of St Madoes, has been without power since 10.30 last night.

He said, “We're just waiting until its turned back on.

“It's an inconvenience, but we know we’ve just got to put up with it and hope it will be back on soon.”

Scottish Hydro Electric said it was working to restore electricity supplies, with a significant number of customers expected to be reconnected through the day as weather conditions ease and roads are cleared.

But their efforts have been hampered further by high winds, which have made it dangerous for engineers to undertake repairs that require the climbing of poles.

The emergency number to call is 0800 300999.