Beware of flooded roads in Caithness after today's thundery weather

Local people are warned to drive safely on roads in the county after flood-affected blackspots were observed between Wick and Watten today.

A band of heavy rain came down from the far north coast this morning and enveloped most of the Caithness with thundery outbreaks of heavy rain, hailstones and sleet.

The MET Office says that "rain will continue in the far northeast" this evening. Its bulletin continues: "Otherwise variable cloud with a chilly night in eastern parts. New band of heavy rain and gusty winds arriving into west later."

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Officers advise drivers to continue to exercise caution in Caithness due to the A99 at Keiss and the A882 between Haster and Watten being flooded. Please drive appropriately for the conditions."

Highland Council issued a bulletin this afternoon stating that the B874 Lochshell to Watten road was closed. It stated: "A section of the B874 between Winlass and Sibster is closed due to flooding. Local diversions are in place."

A later council bulletin said: "There are a number of roads across Caithness affected by standing water and flooding. All roads teams are out responding but drivers are asked to take care and drive according to the conditions."

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