Rest centres have been opened in some parts of Aberdeenshire after flood warnings were escalated to severe on Friday.
The north east of Scotland has been battered by heavy rain and flooding with the council warning residents to take steps to protect their properties.
Road maps of closures due to floods have been circulated and rest centres will open in Ballater, Aboyne, Inverurie and Kemnay for those needing help and who are unable to stay in their homes.
Aberdeenshire Council warned that river levels will peak later on Friday. Sandbag points have also been located around the region to protect from flood waters.
READ MORE: Amber weather warning extended in eastern Scotland as flooding closes roads
Power cuts are also affecting Inverurie, Kintore, Stonehaven, Portlethen and Hatton of Fintray among other locations, with reports of broadband internet being down.
There has also been localised flooding in some parts of Edinburgh, with pictures showing the Crewe Toll roundabout in the west of the city submerged under water.
The Met Office has said more than a month’s worth of rain had fallen in Charr, Aberdeenshire overnight with the total recorded as 140 millimetres.
Severe Flood Warnings have been issued by SEPA for Brechin and Finavon and Tannadice. As a result, Angus Council, ANGUSalive and partner agencies have opened rest centres at Brechin Community Campus and Angus House, Forfar, to residents from these areas. https://t.co/CdkjW8vO29 pic.twitter.com/nL6kzQHeIH
— Angus Council (@AngusCouncil) November 18, 2022
Train journeys across much of eastern Scotland have also been disrupted.
The East Coast Mainline between Montrose and Laurencekirk is closed due to flooding on the line and no trains are currently running between Dundee and Aberdeen; Aberdeen and Inverness; Perth and Inverness or Inverness and Wick.
ScotRail has urged passengers to check journeys ahead of travel using their app or social media with some passengers being told not to travel.
Police Scotland have warned drivers to plan ahead, be mindful of increased stopping distances and be prepared with warm clothing and sufficient fuel should they be delayed.
On Friday evening, justice secretary and lead minister for resilience, Keith Brown, chaired a meeting of the Scottish Government’s resilience committee.
He urged members of the public to “take extra care” if they are out and about and not to attempt to walk or drive through flood water.
“The Scottish Government’s resilience arrangements have been activated to ensure preparations and appropriate measures are in place, and we will continue to monitor the situation over the course of the weekend,” Mr Brown added.
“We are in close contact with resilience partners, local authorities and the emergency services to ensure people in the affected areas receive the latest information, advice and support where needed.”
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