RAIN and gale-force winds are expected to sweep across much of Scotland today and tomorrow, with the risk of flooding.

The Met Office said rain would move across Argyll, Tayside and Central Scotland for 24 hours from this afternoon and melting snow could increase the risk of flooding in some parts.

Severe weather warnings were issued for the weekend and heavy rain is expected to spread to southern Scotland tomorrow, continuing until Monday. There will also be winds of up to 70mph, increasing the risk of disruption to motorists. Sepa had six flood warnings for Tayside, with alerts in place for Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders.