A rare and serious flood warning, cautioning of “danger to life,” has been issued for parts of northern Scotland as Hogmanay approaches, with torrential rain expected to breach riverbanks.
Communities in Aviemore and surrounding Highland areas are bracing for extensive river flooding on Tuesday morning following a night of persistent rainfall.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has alerted residents across the northwest and central Highlands to prepare for significant disruption due to flooding in the lead-up to the New Year celebrations.
Weather Alerts in Effect
The Met Office has enforced a yellow weather warning for heavy rain and snow across much of Scotland on Monday and Tuesday.
Additionally, an amber rain warning has been issued for the Inverness area on Tuesday. By this morning, SEPA had issued 10 flood alerts and 31 flood warnings.
Although three severe flood warnings—the highest level of alert—were initially in place for the Speyside area, they were lifted at 8 a.m.
Despite predictions, river levels on the Spey began to rise later than anticipated on Tuesday morning.
SEPA clarified: “Overnight, water levels on the River Spey did not rise as forecast but started to increase early Tuesday morning. While less rain fell overnight than expected, rainfall continues to impact the region.”
Transport Disruption Worsens
Heavy rainfall has disrupted train services, with ScotRail imposing speed restrictions across multiple routes. Affected lines include:
Network Rail confirmed the closure of the Highland Main Line at Kingussie due to extreme overnight rainfall, alongside the line north of Inverness between Muir of Ord and Dingwall.
Severe Flood Warnings Issued
Three severe flood warnings remain in place for areas between Sluggan and Dulnain Bridge, Kincraig to Inverdruie, and Aviemore/Dalfabar to Grantown.
SEPA has urged those in affected regions to act immediately, warning: “There is a danger to life. If you require assistance, contact emergency responders. Persistent heavy rainfall will cause river levels to rise, leading to significant flooding of properties and businesses in and around Aviemore.”
Government Response and Public Safety Appeals
First Minister John Swinney described the severe flood warning as a “very significant upgrade” in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Justice Secretary Angela Constance chaired a Scottish Government resilience meeting on Monday evening, emphasising the need for caution amid widespread travel disruptions.
Constance advised: “Severe flood warnings signalling danger to life are issued rarely. It is crucial that everyone in the affected areas takes necessary precautions. Avoid floodwaters, refrain from unnecessary risks, and follow guidance from emergency services. If evacuation orders are given, please comply immediately.”
Residents are urged to stay vigilant as authorities work to mitigate the impacts of the extreme weather.
