Heavy rain to bring flooding to some areas this morning

What to expect

• Spray and flooding probably leading to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
• Delays and some cancellations to train and bus services are likely
• Homes and businesses are likely to be flooded, causing damage to some buildings
• A good chance some communities will be cut off by flooded roads
• Fast flowing or deep floodwater is likely, causing danger to life

Marc Becker, Flood Duty Manager for the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), said: “Heavy rain from around midnight on Thursday into Friday morning could cause flooding from rivers and surface water in central and southern Scotland.

“Impacts may include flooding in communities, properties and agricultural land. Disruption to the transport network is also likely, including difficult driving conditions. Parts of Dumfries and Galloway and the Borders in particular could experience significant impacts.

“Regional Flood Alerts and local Flood Warnings are in place. People living and working in affected areas are advised to plan their essential journeys and consider the steps they need to take now to be prepared and to stay safe. Anyone out walking is urged to be extra cautious, even around small watercourses. They can also keep updated on floodline.sepa.org.uk.

“SEPA works 24/7 to monitor conditions and is in close contact with the Met Office and other partners to understand and communicate the flooding risk.”

Staying informed

• Check the latest information on SEPA’s regional Flood Alerts and local Flood Warnings at sepa.org.uk/floodupdates.
• Check the latest advice on what to do to prepare for flooding at floodlinescotland.org.uk
• Register for SEPA’s free Floodline alert service by calling 0345 988 1188 or by clicking floodlinescotland.org.uk

Be prepared and stay safe

• Check Floodline – visit floodline.sepa.org.uk
• Don’t walk through flood water – 15cm of fast flowing water could be enough to knock you off your feet and hazards can be hidden under the water.
• Drive with care, and do not travel through deep fast flowing water. It only takes 30cm of fast flowing water to move an average family sized car.
• If you’re walking beside rivers be extra careful of wet footpaths and small watercourses.
• Consider deploying flooding protection products if required.