UK: Adverse weather forecast across western Scotland through at least Dec. 18

Heavy rainfall is forecast across western Scotland through at least Dec. 18. Rainfall could trigger shallow landslides, most likely across the south of the Highland region and Argyll. The UK Met Office has issued the following warnings:

• Amber (middle level on a three-tier scale) rain warnings: Highlands and Eilean Siar and Strathclyde regions Dec. 17

• Yellow rain warnings: the rest of the affected area Dec. 16-18

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has issued red flood warnings (middle level on a three-tier scale) across parts of Churchill Barriers. Orange flood alerts are in place across most of the rest of western Scotland.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil.

Floodwaters and debris flows will likely render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities will probably temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Flooding will likely block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are probable in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather will likely trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and employees' inability to reach work sites. Electricity and telecommunications service disruptions are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.