UPDATE: Roads across Scotland are now closed due to severe flooding as the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) issues urgent flood warnings for 18 areas. This follows days of extreme weather, including heavy rain and melting snow, prompting serious disruptions nationwide.
Flood alerts are currently active in regions such as Dalry and Kilwinning in North Ayrshire, Aberfoyle in Stirling, and Newton Stewart in Dumfries and Galloway. The A92 has been closed in both directions at Portlethen due to flooding, with updates expected on the A83 trunk road by midday today, following a thorough hillside inspection.
As temperatures rise, the Met Office warns of a “rapid thaw” that, combined with further rain, could exacerbate flooding risks. A yellow alert for rain remains in effect for northwestern Scotland until 10 a.m. today, with forecasts indicating up to 110mm of rain in areas like Skye and Lochaber. Additionally, a yellow wind warning has been issued for gusts reaching up to 85mph until 8 a.m. today.
David Morgan, SEPA Flood Duty Manager, states, “Continuing heavy rain, combined with melting snow, increases the risk of flooding. The most affected areas are Dumfries and Galloway, as well as the west and north of Scotland.” He cautioned that flooding could impact communities, low-lying land, and transport infrastructure, making driving conditions extremely hazardous.
Travel networks have faced significant disruptions as well. Ferries have been canceled in Oban, Troon, Mallaig, Ullapool, and Largs, while ScotRail has urged passengers to verify service availability as parts of the rail network are likely to be disrupted this morning. Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, highlighted the potential for delays and speed restrictions due to the severe weather.
“Passengers should check their full journey before they travel using the ScotRail website or app,” he advised. “Our teams across Scotland are working hard to maintain service amid these challenging conditions.”
In response to the flooding, Bear Scotland has implemented proactive measures, utilizing the Old Military Road to ensure access to the A83 corridor for travelers, keeping the region open for business with minimal delays. Euan Scott, Bear Scotland’s north-west representative, emphasized, “The safety of road users is the priority, and we closely monitor conditions daily.”
The extreme weather has already affected many parts of Scotland, resulting in school closures and other travel disruptions. A meeting of the Scottish Government Resilience Room was held on Sunday, marking the seventh consecutive day of coordination among agencies to tackle the ongoing weather crisis.
With the situation developing rapidly, residents are urged to stay informed about the latest updates regarding flood risks and travel conditions. Emergency services are on high alert as authorities continue to monitor the evolving weather patterns across Scotland.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent situation.
