Wick River bursts its banks – Flood alert in operation for Caithness and Sutherland
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Reports of flooding have come in from across the county with Wick River observed breaking its banks at Watten today (Friday, November 18).
Caithness and Sutherland are both on a Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) flood alert warning at the moment after heavy rain affected the eastern parts of both areas yesterday and today.
SEPA had warned that the rain had the potential to "cause some surface water flooding impacts or flooding from rivers".
The report continues: "Particularly at risk are urban areas, built up rural locations and the transport network. Impacts may include flooding to low-lying land and roads, with difficult driving conditions. SEPA will continue to monitor the situation and further updates will appear if the situation changes."
The agency adds: "Remain vigilant and remember, it is your responsibility to take actions which help protect yourself and your property."
Advice and information is also available through Floodline on 0345 9881188. The SEPA flood alert is in force until further notice and was sent by phone and sms free of charge to registered customers of its Floodline direct warning service. If you haven't already signed up to receive free flood messages, please call Floodline or register online at sepa.org.uk/floodingsignup.
The Floodline quick dial number for this area is 22100.
A yellow warning for rain remains in place for a large part of eastern Scotland, with disruption likely continue into the weekend.
Across Scotland heavy rain is causing disruption to the transport network. Surface water and reduced visibility is leading to difficult driving conditions, a number of rail lines are currently closed and some ferry services are cancelled or delayed. Advice remains to check with your operator to see if your service is affected. Traffic Scotland provides regular updates on the trunk road network and Police Scotland continue to warn of a high risk of disruption.
