The latest road closures following flooding in Tayside

Treacherous Driving Conditions On Local Roads

Officers in Tayside are urging drivers to travel with extra caution this evening, particularly in local areas that may been affected by flooding.

Due to persistent rain today there is a lot of surface water on the roads causing hazardous driving conditions.

Superintendent Graeme Murdoch said: "I would ask drivers travelling tonight to travel with caution, particularly on unlit, local roads. There may be sections of standing/surface water which may not be initially obvious an...d not all areas of flooding may have signs in place.

"If you come across water on the road which appears too deep, do not be tempted to drive through it.

"If water on the road doesn't appear too deep for your vehicle then stay in first gear but keep the engine speed high by slipping the clutch - this will stop you from stalling; Drive slowly and avoid areas where the water is deepest, usually near the kerb; finally test your brakes when you have passed the flooded area before you drive at normal speed.

"It is also vital that motorists adhere to road closure signs as these are there to protect the public. Ignoring the closures is irresponsible and puts you at risk as well as the emergency services who then have to come and rescue you.

"We are continuing to work closely with all relevant partner agencies to monitor the weather and its impact on the Tayside area, particularly river levels.

"We expect a peak tomorrow morning from 7am to water levels on the low, mid and upper sections of the River Tay along with the North and South Esk and we will be checking how the peak in water levels may impact on residents and we will respond accordingly.

"For anyone who thinks they may require sandbags to secure their properties they can contact their local authority for further information.

For further updates about weather warnings and flood alerts from the Met Office and from SEPA log onto:

www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/warnings/