Forecasters warn heavy rain could cause disruption across eastern Scotland

An amber weather warning for heavy rain is in place on Friday with widespread disruption expected across parts of eastern Scotland.

The warning covers parts of Grampian, Tayside, Central and Fife and came into force at midnight.

It is expected to run until 3pm on Friday afternoon.

A yellow warning will be in place for a large part of eastern Scotland until Friday evening.

The rain will make driving difficult, with potential for reduced visibility and surface water, and conditions being likely to affect travel on both the trunk road and rail network.

Police Scotland warned of a high risk of disruption.

Regional flood warnings are also in place from the eastern Borders to Aberdeenshire, with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency warning Aberdeenshire and Angus could be particularly affected.

People living in regions with flood warnings have been urged to plan any journeys and keep themselves safe.

Minister for Transport Jenny Gilruth said: “The Met Office is warning us to expect a period of difficult weather in parts of eastern Scotland throughout Friday, with heavy rain likely to impact travel in the amber warning area in the North East.

“The conditions could potentially bring disruption to the transport network, so it’s important people plan their journeys before they set off – particularly if they’re looking to use the trunk roads or travel by rail.”

ScotRail has imposed some speed restrictions on lines in the East of Scotland until midday.

Ms Gilruth added: “Motorists should make sure their routes are available, follow travel advice from Police Scotland and drive to the conditions. The new Traffic Scotland website – traffic.gov.scot – lets people access the latest information on the trunk roads, and you can also follow their twitter page @TrafficScotland which is regularly updated.

“If you are planning to travel by rail, please check with your operator ahead of your journey to see if your service is affected.”

Chief Superintendent Louise Blakelock, head of road policing, said: “As an amber warning for heavy rain has been issued, we are urging motorists to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary travel.

“The Met Office, Sepa and Traffic Scotland websites have valuable information about weather disruptions and we would advise people to check these sites before setting off on your journey.

“If you do need to drive, make sure you and your vehicle are suitably prepared by having sufficient fuel, waterproofs, warm clothing, food and water in the event you are delayed and be mindful of increased stopping distances when braking.”