South of Scotland downpour forecast sparks roads appeal

Heavy rains have caused flooding problems in southern Scotland Farmhouse cut off by floods

Police have appealed to drivers to make only essential journeys as more rain is forecast to hit southern Scotland.

A severe weather warning has been issued for Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders from 0600 GMT until midnight.

The Met Office said the south of Scotland could see up to 75mm (3in) of rainfall during that period.

Police said driving conditions were already hazardous and would only be made worse by further downpours.

The latest rain is forecast to be accompanied by gales gusting up to 65mph.

Insp Neil Hewitson of Dumfries and Galloway Constabulary said this would make driving conditions particularly difficult.

Wettest day

He said: "Spray from other vehicles whipped up by these high winds will have the effect of reducing visibility.

"The added dangers of floods and roads affected by standing water make for dangerous driving conditions.

"The message is clear - only travel if you really need to."

Dumfries and Galloway suffered widespread flooding on Friday following the wettest November day on record.

It has left some roads only passable with care and many rivers swollen.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency had nine flood watches in place on rivers across Scotland on Tuesday morning.

Checks are also being carried out on bridges across the region to assess their safety.