Scotland weather: Met Office rain warning upgraded to amber as forecasters say flooding 'likely'
Up to 150 mm of rain is expected in some areas.
The Met Office has upgraded its weather warning from yellow to amber across parts of Scotland on Thursday, warning of potential flooding and travel disruption due to heavy rain.
The forecasters had already extended a yellow weather warning for rain covering areas of central and north east Scotland, which is in place from 6pm on Wednesday until 11.59pm on Friday.
On Wednesday afternoon, the Met Office upgraded the warning in Angus, Perth and Kinross and Aberdeenshire on Thursday.
The new amber alert is in place from midnight on Wednesday until 6pm on Thursday.
The Met Office said: “Rain will be persistent and heavy during Thursday with widespread accumulations of 60-80 mm likely and as much as 100-120 mm over high ground.
“Event totals since Wednesday evening may exceed 150 mm in a few places.
“This is expected to lead to some surface water and river flooding across the area.
“This Amber warning indicates where there is greater likelihood of medium level impacts due to mainly river flooding, with the Yellow warning covering a wider area and longer time period.”
The forecasters said it is “likely” some homes and businesses will flood, and warned of a danger to life from fast flowing or deep floodwater.
They said there is a “good chance” some communities in affected areas could be cut off due to flooding.
Meanwhile, delays and cancellations to some train and bus services are expected, and drivers have been warned about hazardous road conditions.
Chief Superintendent Scott McCarren, Police Scotland’s Head of Road Policing, said: “The Amber warning for rain means there is a high risk of disruption on the road network and travel conditions may be hazardous.
“Motorists are therefore advised to take extra caution when driving and avoid non-essential travel until road conditions improve.
“If you do have to travel then plan ahead, and ensure both you and your vehicle are suitably equipped for the conditions you may face and be aware that the delays may result in you spending longer within your vehicle, so make sure your mobile phone is charged and you have plenty of fuel, warm clothing, food, and water.
“Please also pay attention to any road signage and warnings relating to flooded roads or surface water and do not try to access any routes that are closed because of the conditions.
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