Police Scotland has issued a strong warning to motorists across the Highlands and Islands as heavy and persistent rain threatens flooding, disruption, and hazardous travel conditions over the coming days.
The warning follows an Amber weather alert issued by the Met Office, alongside a wider Yellow warning covering Highland, Moray, and Eilean Siar, raising concerns about surface water, rising rivers, and difficult conditions on rural roads.
Police Scotland said conditions on the road network could deteriorate quickly, particularly in more remote areas where flooding and reduced visibility pose the greatest risk.
Chief Superintendent Scott McCarren, head of road policing, said the Amber warning signals a high likelihood of disruption and urged people to reconsider travel plans.
“The Amber warning for rain means there is a high risk of disruption on the road network and travel conditions may be hazardous.
“Motorists are therefore advised to take extra caution when driving and avoid non essential travel until road conditions improve.”
He said anyone who does need to travel should plan carefully and be prepared for delays.
“If you do have to travel then plan ahead, and ensure both you and your vehicle are suitably equipped for the conditions you may face.
“Be aware that the delays may result in you spending longer within your vehicle, so make sure your mobile phone is charged and you have plenty of fuel, warm clothing, food, and water.
“Please also pay attention to any road signage and warnings relating to flooded roads or surface water and do not try to access any routes that are closed because of the conditions.”
The Met Office said rainfall is expected to become increasingly persistent, with some exposed areas at risk of particularly high totals over a short period.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Dan Harris warned that flooding could continue even after the heaviest rain has passed.
“Rain will turn increasingly persistent and heavy late on Wednesday and through much of Thursday for parts of Scotland.
“This is expected to lead to flooding in some places, with some rivers taking longer to respond to the rainfall and could lead to ongoing impacts through Thursday.”
The Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said the forecast weather is likely to disrupt travel across parts of the country and urged people to plan ahead.
“The Met Office is forecasting heavy rain in parts of eastern Scotland over the next few days, which will likely bring disruption to the transport network.
“If you have to travel, please make sure you plan your journey before you set off,” she added, urging motorists to check road conditions and public transport updates before travelling.
Emergency services continue to advise people not to walk, drive, or attempt to cross floodwater, warning that fast flowing water can be deeper and more dangerous than it appears.
Flood alerts and warnings remain in place through the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, with residents in vulnerable areas encouraged to stay informed and prepare in advance.
Police said people across the Highlands and Islands should continue to monitor local updates, weather forecasts, and travel information, as conditions can change quickly during prolonged periods of heavy rain.
