Parts of Scotland on flood alert after snowfall overnight

Parts of Scotland are on alert after a host of flood warnings were put in place across the country.

Travel disruption is expected to continue throughout the morning, following adverse weather overnight and a yellow warning for snow and ice until 10am.

There are a total of 21 flood warnings in place, spanning towns and villages in Aberdeen, Dumfries and Galloway, Orkney and West Central Scotland.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency has highlighted Renfrew and Dumbarton as two towns, where caution should be exercised amid high water levels.

STV meteorologist Sean Batty explained there is a risk of coastal flooding because of high tides throughout Thursday.

However, the weather is expected to pick up on Friday and over the weekend.

He said: “Some parts of the country have woken up to snow, but freezing levels will rise through the day with snow turning to rain falling at low levels, but staying as snow above around 300 metres.

“There’s a risk of some coastal flooding issues due to high tides today with the highest risk areas in the north east, Orkney, Western Isles, and the south west coast. Strong winds will lead to large waves in the south west too.

“Friday will be a much quieter day with a lot of dry and sunny weather before more unsettled conditions return at the weekend.”

Gritters have been out on the major roads overnight but those in vehicles are still advised to drive carefully and to the conditions.

Traffic Scotland warned of wintry conditions on the M8 and urged “make sure to take extra care”.