Met Office ‘danger to life’ warning as weekend sees UK split between warm weather and heavy rain
Forecasters say much of Scotland is set for a “very wet period” across Saturday and Sunday
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A “danger to life” warning is in place across parts of Scotland this weekend as residents are warned of flooding and power cuts.
Forecasters say much of the country is set for a “very wet period” across Saturday and Sunday, with up to 180mm (7in) of rain possible in the worst affected areas.
An amber warning for rain is in force across swathes of central Scotland including Tayside and Fife, Grampian and Strathclyde, with residents there told there is a risk of damage to homes and businesses from floods.
The Met Office says there is a risk of “danger to life” from fast-flowing or deep water and that there could be cancellations or delays to public transport.
Motorists are also warned that spray on roads and surface water could lead to “difficult” driving conditions.
A yellow warning for rain is also in place until 3am on Saturday for parts of north west England on Friday, with flooding of a few homes and businesses “likely”.
South and central England is set for much brighter and warmer conditions than the north, with temperatures of up to 25C expected in some parts on Sunday.
“For the south of the UK, we’ve got slightly ridged conditions and higher pressure bringing a more settled day with a fair amount of sunshine around,” Oli Claydon, a Met Office spokesman, said.
"(It will be) dry for pretty much everyone in the southern half of the country and unseasonably warm temperatures as well.”
He added: “As we get into the very far north of England and into Scotland that’s where the difference starts, with some persistent and heavy rain across Scotland and mostly notably in western Scotland, where we’re likely to see the highest totals.”
“It will be) dry for pretty much everyone in the southern half of the country and unseasonably warm temperatures as well.
“As we get into the very far north of England and into Scotland that’s where the difference starts, with some persistent and heavy rain across Scotland and mostly notably in western Scotland, where we’re likely to see the highest totals.”
Fiona Hyslop, Scotland’s transport minister, called on travellers to plan their journeys before setting off over the weekend.
“Motorists should make sure their routes are available, follow the travel advice from Police Scotland and drive in accordance with the conditions,” she said.
“If you are planning to travel by train, ferry or plane, please check with your operators to see if the conditions are having any impact on your services.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments