Residents in parts of eastern Scotland have been urged to exercise caution as the Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for persistent and heavy rain. The warning, which is in place from midnight on Thursday until 6pm, covers areas of Angus, Perth and Kinross, and Aberdeenshire.
According to forecasters, these regions could see up to 80mm (3 inches) of rainfall on Thursday, with potential accumulations of 120mm (4 inches) on higher ground. The Met Office has warned that this heavy downpour is expected to lead to surface water and river flooding across the affected areas.
Police Scotland has echoed the Met Office’s concerns, stating that there is a high risk of travel disruption due to the hazardous driving conditions. Chief Superintendent Scott McCarren, Head of Road Policing, has advised motorists to exercise extra caution and avoid unnecessary journeys until the weather and road conditions improve.
Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop has also warned that the heavy rain is likely to affect both road and rail travel in the region. She has urged anyone who needs to travel to plan their journey in advance and be prepared for potential delays.
In addition to the amber warning, the Met Office has also issued a yellow weather warning for rain covering a larger area, including the Highlands, Moray, and Aberdeenshire. This warning is in place until midnight on Friday and forecasts rainfall accumulations of 30-60mm (1-2 inches) inland, with up to 120mm (5 inches) over the highest ground.
Forecasters have explained that the ground is already saturated due to recent rain and thawing snow, which increases the risk of flooding in some areas. They have advised residents to stay vigilant and monitor local weather updates throughout the coming days.
