Warning: Yellow

To expect: Rain

Affected area: Grampian

Start time estimate: Wednesday 2am

End time estimate: Wednesday noon

The Met Office has announced a Yellow rain alert for Grampian for Wednesday.

Heavy rain is set to impact Grampian, beginning at approximately 2am on Wednesday and clearing by noon.

The Yellow alert for rain was issued at 11:50am on Tuesday, February 3.

A Met Office forecast said: “Precipitation across Aberdeenshire will turn heavier into the early part of Wednesday morning before easing later in the day. Much of this will fall as snow inland above 100–200 metres, but lower‑lying and coastal areas will see further rainfall totals of 10–20 mm. Given the already saturated ground following a prolonged period of unsettled weather, this additional rainfall will bring a risk of flooding in places along with some difficult driving conditions.”

What to expect

Flooding of a few homes and businesses is likely; Bus and train services probably affected with journey times taking longer; Spray and flooding on roads probably making journey times longer.

What should you do during intense showers?

Check if your property could be at risk of flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit. Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary. Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area. For further details see Met Office Warnings & Advice.

What is a yellow weather warning?

The Met Office has three categories of weather warning, depending on the likely impact of severe weather and also how likely it is to strike in a particular area.

A yellow warning is issued when weather conditions are expected to disrupt travel and traffic and may impact on daily routines but are not likely to pose a risk to life or property.

An amber warning is more severe and advises people to think about changing their plans to minimise the risk.

A red warning means weather conditions are expected to be dangerous with widespread damage to property and a risk to life, with the public usually advised to avoid travelling.

The Yellow weather alert for rain will remain in place until noon on Wednesday.