Heavy rain is expected to hit north-west Scotland, causing possible flooding and landslides, forecasters said.
The Met Office has issued a series of weather warnings, starting with a yellow warning from 6pm on Saturday and a yellow warning from midnight, with prolonged heavy rain expected to cause some flooding and travel disruption. .
The agency warned that power outages were likely and driving conditions would be difficult, with “the possibility of rapid flowing waters or deep flooding, which could be life-threatening.”
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Between 10 and 15 cm of rain is expected to fall in the area this weekend, potentially reaching 20 cm on some west-facing slopes.
The warning covers all of western Scotland north of Helensburgh, excluding the Outer Hebrides and a handful of other islands off the west coast.
Anyone traveling to the affected area has been asked to plan ahead before leaving.
Ferry operator CalMac announced on Twitter/X that there will be cancellations over the weekend and that other services are likely to be disrupted.
One of the canceled services is the Tarbert – Lochmaddy ferry.
Met Office spokesman Graham Madge said: “Strong south-westerly winds will fuel a long, heavy spell of rain.
“Up to 200mm of rain could be recorded in some areas, but it is likely to be between 100 and 150mm across the wider warning area.
“In addition to the usual risks associated with heavy rainfall, there is a potential for landslides in the southern highlands and Argyle region.”
Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, head of Scottish Highway Police, asked people to “consider whether their travel is truly essential during the bad weather or whether it can be postponed until conditions improve.”
David Scott, flood task manager at the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), urged people not to drive through floodwater.
He said: “30cm of fast-flowing water can move a medium-sized family car, and just 15cm of fast-flowing water can be enough to knock you over.”
Scottish Transport Minister Fiona Hyslop has asked people to use common sense.
She said: “Our main road teams will be on the network to address any issues, but it is also important that drivers play their part and plan their journeys before they set off.
“Please ensure your route is accessible, follow Police Scotland travel advice and drive in accordance with the conditions.
“If you plan to travel by train, ferry or plane, check with your operators.”
The rain is expected to intensify overnight on Saturday and the Met Office will raise the warning to yellow on Sunday.
2023-12-16 21:32:19
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