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SEPA urges north west and central Highlands to "Be Prepared, Be Aware" as flooding is expected in run up to Hogmanay

Heavy and persistent rain is forecast for Monday and Tuesday, which will follow an already wet Sunday. Regional Flood Alerts are in place, and local Flood Warnings will be issued as needed.  

SEPA continues to monitor the situation 24/7, working closely with the Met Office and other partner agencies. 

Pascal Lardet, SEPA Flood Duty Manager, said: 

"Some very high river levels are forecast for Monday and Tuesday, in particular the Spey and other rivers in the Great Glen and Easter Ross area. Levels on the River Tay and other rivers across the Central Highlands will also be high.  

“We’re likely to see river and surface water flooding impacts across these areas, resulting in disruptions to transport and to communities. Flooding of property, infrastructure, roads and the rail network are all possible. We urge everyone to be prepared and be aware.  

“If you live or work in the affected areas, or are planning to visit, think about any steps you need to take now to be prepared for flooding impacts - and 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's flooding pages.

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