Flood alert for Edinburgh and the Lothians as heavy rainfall is forecast

The capital has been issued with a flood warning as forecasters predict heavy downpours in the surrounding area on Wednesday and Thursday.

The worst of the weather is predicted to hit between tonight and tomorrow morning.

A Met Office yellow weather warning is also in effect.

A spokesman said: "The east of the area is at greatest risk. Localised flooding of land and roads and isolated property flooding is possible from rivers and surface water.

"Large waves may affect the area from Wednesday evening through Thursday. Localised flooding of low lying land and roads is possible from wave overtopping around times of high tide."

High tide is due at 3am and 3.30pm on Thursday.

Forecast

SEPA has issued a flood alert for Edinburgh and the Lothians today. Picture: SEPA

SEPA has urged residents to remain 'vigilant' and to prioritise safety. For further advice, contact Floodline on 0345 988 1188. The Floodline quick dial number for this area is 23200.

The Met Office yellow weather warning is in place from 4pm on Wednesday (27 Nov) until 6am on Thursday (28 Nov).

The Met Office said, “Rain, heavy at times, is expected to arrive on Wednesday afternoon, persisting overnight before slowly clearing from the north on Thursday morning.

“20 to 30 mm rainfall is likely, with 40 to 50 mm possible over higher ground.”