Amber weather warning for rain issued for Borders

Flooding on the old road between Selkirk and Galashiels at Sunderland Hall last Sunday.

That upgraded Met Office warning, valid from noon to 11pm tomorrow, February 15, as Storm Dennis hits the UK has sparked fears of a repetition of last weekend’s flooding in parts of the region.

“Heavy and prolonged rainfall is anticipated throughout this period, up to 40mm in some places,” said a Scottish Borders Council spokesperson.

“Combined with melting snow, this could lead to flooding, not only associated with increased river levels but also run-off from hills.

“There are significant concerns about the impact on Hawick, Jedburgh, Newcastleton and the Ettrick Valley.

“The council continues to liaise closely with the Met Office and Scottish Environment Protection Agency and is making all necessary preparations for the forecasted weather, including replenishing sandbag stores and stocks and pre-distributing to key areas.

“Our emergency planning centre will open from 11am on Saturday and be operating throughout the amber weather warning period on Saturday and into Sunday to monitor the weather and impacts and respond as required.

“An underlying yellow weather warning for rain and wind remains in place from 7am to 8pm on Saturday. From noon on Sunday to noon on Monday, there is also a yellow weather warning for wind.”

Emergency repairs to the flood defence wall at Richmond Row in Jedburgh, following damage caused by Storm Ciara last weekend, have now been completed, so all 11 properties there are now protected again and no longer at the mercy of the River Jed.