Sandbags at the ready as Borders placed on flood alert
Last updated 8th Apr 2024
Sandbags are being offered to homes and businesses in Eyemouth, amid concerns the town's harbour area could be left under water.
Most of the Borders has been placed on flood alert, after the Met Office issued a Yellow - be prepared - weather warning for more rain.
Up to 60mm is expected to fall in some places, between 1am and 6pm on Tuesday (April 9th).
A warning issued by Scottish Borders Council (SBC) states: "Given that the ground in this region is saturated from recent heavy rainfall, the rainfall totals quoted have the potential to cause greater impact than would be normal for this time of year."
It goes on to say disruption to transport and damage to homes and business due to flooding is possible.
And adds: "If you are travelling by car, please drive to the conditions and give yourself extra time."
Rail passengers on the East Coast Main Line are also being advised to plan extra time for their journeys as heavy rain moves in, with speed restrictions expected to come into force between 11am and 6pm.
Coastal communities face the double-whammy of higher than normal tides, with the risk of wave over-topping said to be "high".
Eyemouth Coastguard posted: "High tide is 5.6m at 3.42pm. Along with low pressure and extra water coming down the river, Harbour Road is expected to flood.
"Sandbags are being distributed by SBC to the FMA (Fishermen's Mutual Association) car park from (Tuesday) morning for residents and businesses on the harbour and surrounding areas.
"Our message is still the same. It is always best to be prepared."
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