Storm Desmond – a deep area of low pressure is now tracking north of the United Kingdom, however it’s producing it’s strongest winds further south, which lies across northwestern parts of Britain where there’s a tight squeeze in the isobars.
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Slightly less rain is expected in Cavan, Limerick and Cork but accumulations of up to 70mm are likely, and will result in “flooding and treacherous driving conditions” throughout the western half of the country.
More than 80 flood alerts and flood warnings are in place and properties in Hawick have been evacuated over concerns about the River Teviot.
Already snow and rain have caused travel disruption in parts of Scotland as the storm approaches. Snowfall closed roads in Midlothian, the Scottish Borders and parts of Edinburgh on Thursday night.
For Saturday through to Sunday, some parts of Scotland as well as north west England, north east England and Yorkshire and Humber have warnings for wind and rain.
Police described the weather as “extreme” and some fire engines had trouble reaching emergency calls, with one crashing into cars in Gorebridge, Midlothian.
It is due to persist across much of the Glasgow area today, with strong winds and some reaching gale force later.
“We would encourage members of the public to remain vigilant and be mindful of the conditions in their locality and when travelling”.
Gardaí in Kerry are reporting surface water and pocket flooding on numerous county’s roads with motorists being advised to avoid the Castlemaine road outside Tralee as it is flooded and impassable.
“If you are at all unsure how deep a flood is the best advice is to err on the side of caution and take another route”.
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Scottish Environment Minister Aileen McLeod said the Scottish Government and Transport Scotland are closely monitoring the situation, supporting the efforts of local authorities and the emergency services.
