PICTURES: Tore A9 flooding amid Highland Hogmanay travel chaos
FLOODING at Tore on the A9 is one of many Highland locations facing adverse weather today (December 31).
The spate of flood alerts come amid an active amber weather warning for heavy rain this Hogmanay. The Met Office alert, which runs until 5pm, will be followed by a yellow warning at midnight for snow and ice that will run into New Year's Day and January 2.
The active flood warnings on Tuesday morning included a trio of severe alerts for stretches of the Spey and its tributaries at Aviemore, Kincraig and Carrbridge. Further flood warnings are also in place in the likes of Newtonmore, Kingussie, Grantown, Nairn, Aberlour, Craigellachie, Rothes, Moy Bridge and Strathglass.Three more warnings are also in place in the Fort William and Loch Lochy area.
General flood alerts are also in place for Caithness and Sutherland; Easter Ross and Great Glen; Wester Ross; Findhorn, Nairn, Moray and Speyside; and Skye and Lochaber.
For the full list of flood warnings in your area, visit floodline.sepa.org.uk/floodupdates/
Describing the three severe flood warnings in force on parts of the Spey and tributaries, a spokesperson for the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) said: “There is a danger to life. If you are in an affected area and are in danger and need assistance, call emergency responders. Due to persistent and heavy rainfall, river levels on the River Spey are expected to rise throughout Tuesday.
“Extensive flooding to properties and businesses is expected in and around Aviemore. This will include Dalfaber Road, The Old Bridge Inn, Speyside Leisure Park, the sewage treatment works, the railway line at Easter Kinakyle and the road and communities around Inverdruie and Kincraig.
“Overnight, water levels on the River Spey did not rise to as expected to. It did begin to rise early on Tuesday morning and that will continue into the day. Less rain fell overnight than was forecast, but is continuing to affect the area.
“Take action now. Stay away from flood water and do not take unnecessary risks. Some evacuations have been advised. Please follow the advice of the emergency services and first responders on the ground.
“The Highland Council has set up an information point at Aviemore Highland Resort, Morlich Suite.
“Remain vigilant and remember, it is your responsibility to take actions which help protect yourself and your property. Advice and information is available on our website or by calling Floodline on 0345 988 1188.”
