Widespread flooding hits south west

Friday 21st January 2011

DUMFRIES and Galloway was on flood alert at the weekend after a period of stormy weather.

Melting snow on the hills and heavy rain driven by high winds caused widespread flooding on farmland.

Rivers burst their banks and a number of roads became hazardous.

There have been a large number of reports of potholes which are being dealt with by council teams and contractors.

A road near Millhousebridge, Lochmaben, suffered extensive damage after a near-by river burst its banks.

A high water table and blocked drains added to the problem in some areas.

There was a number flood watches in place across Scotland including in the south west at the weekend.

James Curran, director of science and strategy at weather watchdog SEPA, said: “We are carefully monitoring catchments across the country as the widespread thaw and rain is likely to bring a greater risk of flooding.

“Localised flooding may occur where drains are blocked by ice and on lower lying smaller watercourses, which can present a flooding risk to your property.

“You can help to reduce potential problems around your property by checking that drains are free of ice and excess grit, clearing them if it is safe to do so.”





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