More rain coming to Borders as clean-up continues

At the peak of the problems about 300 homes were evacuated in Hawick as the River Teviot burst its banks, while properties in Newcastleton, Langholm and Peebles were also affected.

More than 100mm of rain fell in the area throughout Friday and Saturday, according to Met Office figures.

Although flood warnings for the area have been withdrawn and although conditions have improved, further rain is forecast and a yellow (be aware) weather warning is in place for rain until 5am on Tuesday.

A further yellow warning for rain for the same area has been issued for 6pm on Wednesday to 6am on Thursday.

Whilst this rain is not expected be as heavy or as prolonged as recent rain, Borderers are still being reminded that there is potential for further localised flooding and disruption to transport given the already saturated ground and high river levels.

All roads are now open across the Borders, however many remain only passable with care. Drivers are urged to exercise caution as many routes remain affected by standing water.

Scottish Borders Council is reassuring residents affected by flooding that help and advice is available for anyone who needs it.

Flooding minister Aileen McLeod is due to visit Hawick tomorrow morning as SBC and other agencies work to ascertain the extent of the flood damage to properties and infrastructure.

Borders MP Calum Kerr has praised the work of the flood team and emergency services right across the Borders.

“The work they did really was amazing and we should all be grateful to them for their efforts,” he said. “The way in which communities came together was also incredible and everyone should take pride in that.”

Skips are being placed in Duke Street, Teviot Crescent and Mansfield Road in Hawick for residents to clear out larger damaged items. Residents are reminded to document and photograph everything before disposal for insurance purposes. The council is also considering the provision of skips in other areas affected by flooding.

A refuse collection vehicle has also been operating in Hawick today and will operate tomorrow where residents can put their general waste bins out for collection.

Only Trinity Primary School in Hawick was closed today, due to floodwater in the boiler room. It will open as normal tomorrow. A small number of school transport routes were affected by flooding and were cancelled or varied today.

The council asked all parents to ensure pupils were safely escorted to and from school/school transport today for safety reasons. Pupils were also not allowed to leave school grounds at lunchtime.

Peebles and Hawick High School pupils will remain in school at lunchtime tomorrow.

Rob Dickson, gold commander for SBC’s multi-agency response, said: “We are now in a clean-up and recovery phase and are working across all areas affected by flooding.

“We would urge anyone who has been impacted by these floods to get in touch if you need any help or advice.”

HAVE YOU BEEN AFFECTED?

Anyone who requires assistance, or knows of a neighbour or family member in need of help, can contact 0300 100 1800. An information page has been set up at www.scotborders.gov.uk/stormdesmond