The Met Office has issued urgent weather warnings as heavy rain sweeps across the United Kingdom, raising significant concerns about flooding, structural damage, and widespread disruption. An amber warning, indicating a high level of risk, is currently active for parts of Scotland until 6pm today, Thursday 22 January 2026.
Immediate Threats to Homes and Infrastructure
Forecasters warn that homes and businesses in the affected regions are likely to experience flooding, with some buildings potentially suffering damage due to the intense rainfall. The amber warning covers multiple areas, including Clackmannanshire, Falkirk, Fife, Perth and Kinross, Stirling, the Highlands, Eilean Siar, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, and Moray.
Met Office chief forecaster Dan Harris emphasised the severity of the situation, stating that within the amber warning zone, some exposed high ground could see over 100mm of rain, while many places under the broader yellow warning may receive 50-80mm. This deluge, falling on already saturated ground, is expected to lead to flooding in various locations, with rivers potentially responding slowly and causing ongoing impacts throughout Thursday.
Expanding Weather Warnings Across the UK
Beyond Scotland, yellow warnings for rain have been implemented in other parts of the country. South Wales, Somerset, and sections of Devon and Dorset are under alert from 8am, with up to 20mm of rainfall anticipated. Northern Ireland faces a yellow warning starting at 10am, lasting for the remainder of the day.
Additionally, a yellow warning that began on Wednesday night remains in effect until midnight on Friday for central Scotland, Tayside, Fife, Grampian, the Highlands, and Eilean Siar. The Met Office cautions that the heaviest rain is clearing to the northeast by 4pm, but risks persist.
Transport Disruption and Safety Advisories
The adverse weather is already causing significant travel chaos. ScotRail has imposed speed restrictions on key routes, including Perth to Inverness until 9.30am on Saturday and Aberdeen to Inverness until 12pm on Friday. Ferry operator CalMac has cancelled all Oban-Coll-Tiree services for Thursday, with other services potentially facing last-minute cancellations or delays.
On the roads, restrictions are in place on the Forth Road Bridge due to high winds, and drivers are advised to exercise caution on various crossings throughout Scotland. Public transport delays or cancellations are possible in the most affected areas, and some communities risk being cut off entirely.
Residents and travellers are urged to stay updated with the latest forecasts and heed safety advice as the UK grapples with this severe weather event. The combination of persistent rain and strong winds underscores the need for vigilance to mitigate risks to property and personal safety.
