Coastal flooding update - Tuesday, 13 February 2024
Date published: 13 February 2024
An improving flooding picture today (Tuesday), though coastal impacts are likely on Orkney and in Aberdeenshire due to high tides and waves.
David Morgan, SEPA’s Flood Duty Manager, said:
“While we’re seeing an improving flooding picture across Scotland today, coastal impacts are still possible due to high spring tides and waves. Impacts are most likely on Orkney and in Aberdeenshire. High water levels mean there is still a risk of localised property flooding in affected areas, as well as potential for flooding of coastal roads, paths and causeways.
“Take care when travelling around exposed coastal areas as high tides and waves may cause spray and wave overtopping. Don’t walk or drive through flood water as there may be hidden hazards.
“Flood Alerts and Warnings are in place so stay up to date though our website. We will continue to review regional Flood Alerts and local Flood Warnings as high tides pass, and work with the Met Office to monitor the situation 24/7.”
Notes to editor
People are encouraged to sign up to the Floodline service to receive free updates for where they live, or where they’re travelling through, directly to their phone.
People can also check flood updates for all the latest updates and check the three day Scottish Flood Forecast to see what’s expected further ahead.
Stay Safe
- Don’t walk through flood water – 15cm of fast flowing water could be enough to knock you off your feet and hazards can be hidden under the water.
- Drive with care, and do not travel through deep fast flowing water. It only takes 30cm of fast flowing water to move an average family sized car.
- Be extra careful if near the coast. Stay away from flooded promenades and crashing waves.
- Consider deploying flooding protection products if required.
Stay Informed
- Follow @SEPAFlood on X for the latest flooding information.
- Check the Regional Flood Alerts and Local Flood Warnings for your area.
- Check your transport routes and check road conditions.
- Check Ready Scotland for advice on preparing for severe weather.
What’s the difference between a Flood Alert and a Flood Warning?
Regional Flood Alerts are early advice that flooding is possible across a wider geographical area. The purpose of the Alerts is to make people aware of the risk of flooding and be prepared. We normally issue them 12 to 24 hours in advance of the possibility of flooding.
Flood Warnings are more locally specific and are issued for areas where we have gauges to measure the exact water height. They are issued at shorter notice when we are more certain that a specific area will be affected.