Stormy return as Scotland battered

Powerful thunderstorms which have rumbled over Scotland for the last two days will roll into today, sparking hazards from lightning strikes and “a danger to life” from fastflowing floodwater.

The country has been divided in two by the Met Office for the severity of conditions to be expected.

A large area including Glasgow and Edinburgh and everything north of the central belt gets the longest warning, with torrential downpours possible in some parts continuing until midnight. As a result of suffering up to three inches of rainfall, a “danger to life” will exist in these parts from fast-flowing or deep floodwater.

In southern Scotland, similar conditions are anticipated, with the added danger of lightning strikes in the afternoon. However, this warning period ends slightly earlier, at 9pm tonight.

The yellow Met Office “be aware” warning states: “There is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus.

“Possibly some damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes. Delays to train services are possible and some flooding of homes and businesses possible, leading to damage.”