Act now! Flood warnings issued for the Scottish Borders as region feels the force of Storm Darragh

Flood warnings have been issued for two communities in the Scottish Borders this evening, as the region continues to feel the force of Storm Darragh.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is advising people living on the edge of the Gala Water in Stow to act now to protect their homes and businesses from flooding.

It comes as river levels continue to rise following a day of incessant rain.

However, by 4.15pm, the SEPA website showed river levels in the Gala Water had begun to drop further upstream at Fountainhall.

A separate flood warning has been issued for Eyemouth ahead of this evening's high tide, while the remainder of the region remains on flood alert.

READ MORE: Eyemouth pensioners left 'traumatised' after garden shed destroyed by fire

SEPA states: "The Gala Water will continue to rise during Saturday afternoon and there is a risk of flooding to low-lying areas near to the Gala Water including properties around Mill Road and Manor Park.

"For Information: Scottish Borders Councils nearest local Sandbag store is located at the Stow Park on Mill Road in Stow."

In relation to Eyemouth, it adds: "There is a risk of waves overtopping the sea defences at Eyemouth. Businesses near to the harbour and vessels moored within the harbour may be at risk."

Elsewhere, police have confirmed a man has been taken to hospital following a report a pedestrian was hit by a falling tree in Kelso, as gusts of wind reached over 60mph.

Locals say they had warned about the danger.

A number of weather warnings remain in place across the region this evening, and motorists are being warned of difficult driving conditions.

WATCH: First look at newly extended Scottish Borders winter light trail

A Scottish Borders Council spokesperson said: "Surface water is affecting many routes across the region, in particular the A72 between Clovenfords and Walkerburn.

"Should the A72 close please avoid the back road due to the risk of severe congestion and use the A7/A703 diversion route instead.

"If you must travel during the current weather warning period please drive to the conditions."

For more stories from the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland, bookmark our new home page - https://hellorayo.co.uk/greatest-hits/borders/news/

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.