Further heavy and persistent rain raises flood risk in run up to Hogmanay
Date published: 30 December 2024
Regional Flood Alerts and local Flood Warnings have been issued as Scotland is set to deal with further persistent and heavy rain which may bring significant flooding impacts over large parts of Scotland over the next two days.
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.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) continues to monitor the situation 24/7, working closely with the Met Office and other partner agencies. Current Flood Alerts and Warnings will be updated and more Flood Warnings will be issued as required. The latest information will always be available at sepa.scot/flooding
Cordelia Menmuir, SEPA’s Duty Flood Manager, said:
“Extremely high water levels are expected in Speyside, the Great Glen and Tayside, resulting in disruptions to transport and to communities. It is possible we could see similar levels to those experienced in early October 2023, when places like Aviemore and Perth were severely affected.
“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.”
Be Prepared, Be Aware
Check the Scottish Flood Forecast: Combining the Met Office's cutting-edge weather forecasts with SEPA's data and expertise, the Scottish Flood Forecast provides a clear, three-day outlook that shows when and where flooding is expected, whether from rivers, surface water, or the sea in Scotland. It can also reassure you if flooding is not expected.
Sign up to Floodline for text, phone call, or email messages for the area where you live or work, allowing you to take action and prepare when flooding is expected.
Follow SEPA on social media: SEPA provide information on predicted flooding in advance through the dedicated @SEPAFlood account on X and its Facebook page
For up-to-date information on Flood Alerts and Warnings, visit sepa.org.uk/flooding
Notes to Editor
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 only issued for areas where we have gauges and forecast models to measure and forecast the exact water height. They are issued at shorter notice when we are more certain that a specific area will be affected.
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 SEPA’s social media 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