An amber weather warning has been issued for parts of Scotland as heavy rain and snow persist, dampening Hogmanay celebrations. On Saturday, the Met Office predicted that most of the country could face disruption due to a deluge of rainfall and snowfall in some areas from Monday until Hogmanay.
The first yellow warning for snow and rain came into place at midnight on Monday and will expire at 11.59pm on Tuesday. Forecasters said heavy rain will become “persistent and widespread” on Monday and Tuesday, bringing rainfall totals between 50 and 70mm in some areas.
Higher ground in parts of western Scotland may see 100 to 140mm of rain. The Met Office said that fast-flowing and deep floodwater may bring a “danger to life”.
READ MORE: New weather warnings for Scotland as heavy snow set to cover most of the country
A second yellow warning for snow has been issued for more southern parts of Scotland as well as parts of England and Wales for Tuesday. The Met Office has also issued an amber warning for rain, covering Moray and the Highlands, which comes into force on Tuesday at midnight and will expire at 5pm.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) said Scotland will see “significant flooding impacts” in the coming days as more persistent and heavy rain arrives.
“Rivers will continue to rise into Tuesday, especially across Speyside, the Great Glen and Tayside where impacts are most likely. Property flooding, flooding of roads and disruption to travel infrastructure is possible,” it said.
Cordelia Menmuir, SEPA’s duty flood manager, said: “We’re likely to see extensive river and surface water flooding impacts across these areas. We’re already seeing impacts on the road and rail network, and further rain will only exacerbate this.
“We urge people living, working and visiting in the affected areas to consider any steps you need to take now to be prepared for flooding impacts. Consider whether your journey is necessary.”
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Meanwhile, ScotRail confirmed that the line in the Kingussie area has been closed due to flooding. The rail operator warned that services between Inverness and Edinburgh as well as Glasgow Queen Street will be cancelled, delayed, or revised.
Drivers have been warned to expect “difficult” driving conditions and some road closures due to the weather. The Met Office said those using public transport should also plan for longer journey times.
It added that snowfall is likely in and around Perthshire, with 10-20cm accumulating on higher ground. Forecasters warned that as milder air pushes in, snow will turn back to rain, and any rapid snow melt will contribute to flooding in places.
“Strong winds may exacerbate impacts, particularly across the areas of Scotland affected by snow,” it added.
Forecasters added that “blizzard conditions” are possible, especially over high ground and across much of Sutherland and Caithness, warning that powerline icing is possible where blizzard conditions occur.
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