Those heading out on Scotland’s roads and railways are being warned to expect delays and disruption after torrential rain swept across the country.
Tuesday’s downpour in Argyll and Bute caused a landslide to close the A83 at the Rest and Be Thankful – leaving drivers with a 60-mile diversion.
Debris also blocked the local Old Military Road, which has previously been used as an alternative route.
Specialist geotechnical contractors concluded that it was unsafe to begin clear-up operations due to movement on the hillside, so the road was sealed off overnight.
#A83 #RestandBeThankful remains closed following multiple landslips yesterday. Teams will begin initial assessments this morning to determine extent of damage. OMR remains closed. Diversion via A83, A82, A85 & A819, follow @trafficscotland for updates! https://t.co/zfhNgi9qtT pic.twitter.com/C1QJIQ4bbh
— BEAR NW Trunk Roads (@NWTrunkRoads) August 5, 2020
It area remained closed on Wednesday morning, with Bear Scotland expected to give an update following further inspection.
In the meantime, Western Ferries is running additional sailings as an alternative so as motorists can avoid the lengthy diversion.
We are running additional sailings this morning from 0800 to help keep you moving through the Rest and Be Thankful closure. Buy your discounted tickets before you board from our Hunter's Quay ticket kiosk or our ticket agents. Full details at https://t.co/r0S4zjMIIA pic.twitter.com/ZMAgz4yklW
— Western Ferries (@Western_Ferries) August 5, 2020
Network Rail Scotland has advised that the West Highland Line remains closed between Helensburgh Upper and Crianlarich due to a landslip.
Due to the closure, ScotRail has advised passengers that it is unable to run services between Stirling and Perth.
Network Rail Scotland has also been forced to close the Mill O’Keir Viaduct near Dunblane after the heavy rain caused the river to rise.
We've had to close the Mill O'Keir viaduct near Dunblane after the rain yesterday caused the river level to reach the red marker in the image below.
— Network Rail Scotland (@NetworkRailSCOT) August 5, 2020
When this happens, we have to close the line and carry out a safety inspection. We're expecting the inspector on site around 7am. pic.twitter.com/1OQKLwMCGd
An inspection will have to be carried to ensure it is safe to reopen.