Severe weather warning issued for North

By Will Clark

- will.clark@hnmedia.co.uk

Published: 17:00, 26 August 2011

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Dark clouds loomed over central Caithness on August 18, plunging part of the county into near darkness. This view was taken from Dunn Hill three miles west of Watten.

THE Met Office is warning residents in the Far North to brace themselves for severe weather conditions this weekend.

A yellow alert has been issued for Caithness, Orkney and Shetland for tomorrow (Saturday) and Sunday.

Heavy rain is expected accompanied by winds of up to 55 mph.

Met Office spokeswoman Helen Chivers said motorists should take extra care when driving on wet roads.

"An area of low pressure is making its way up from southern England and Wales which will reach the Far North by tomorrow.

"Persistent rain, heavy at times, will be accompanied by strong to gale-force winds with a risk of severe gales in the most exposed areas.

"Lower areas are expected to see between 30mm and 50mm rainfall on Saturday night going into Sunday. The public should also be aware of the risk of localised flooding."

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Will Clark