Thawing and flooding - update 4
In some areas, there remains a considerable
volume of water locked up in the extensive snow cover which, in
many cases, is overlying frozen ground and has the potential to
contribute to flooding. Although the thaw of lying snow has been
ongoing for the past three days it is expected to continue for
several days yet and this, in combination with spells of heavy
rainfall, is likely to result in river levels rising significantly
in many areas over the next 24 to 48 hours.
Today (Saturday, 16 January) a band of rain (and hill snow) is
crossing Scotland with temperatures continuing to rise; hence there
will be a continued thaw of lying snow in many areas. The heaviest
rainfall will be over parts of Dumfries and Galloway, the
Borders and the Southern and Eastern Highlands and this, in
combination with the snow melt, is likely to result in further
rises in river levels, especially across the south of Scotland
initially, but other areas later. The rain is expected to clear the
east coast of Scotland this afternoon, but the thaw will continue
and river levels are expected to rise further in many areas
Flood warnings are currently in force for the
River Nith, Earn, Tyne (at Haddington), Water of Leith (Edinburgh)
and the Lyne and Jed Waters in the Borders.
Throughout the next 24 hours there also remains the risk of
localised surface water flooding which may be exacerbated by frozen
ground and residual ice blocking the free drainage of surface
water.
SEPA monitors rainfall and river levels around the clock, using
this information to update the Floodline
service with flood alerts as appropriate. This information can
be accessed through SEPA’s website at www.sepa.org.uk and also via 0845 988 1188. SEPA
encourages anyone concerned about the possibility of flooding to
use these sources of information and ensure they are prepared and
have plans in place should there be any issues.
ENDS