Heavy rain warning upgraded to amber in Scotland on Hogmanay

The Met Office yellow rain and snow warning extends from central Scotland to the north of the country, while a wind warning covers the south of the country on Hogmanay.

A yellow alert for snow has also been issued for Orkney and Shetland on Tuesday.

The Met Office said the weather warnings could lead to difficult driving conditions, disruption to public transport, power outages and homes being cut off.

Environment agency Sepa has also told communities in the north-west and central Highlands to prepare for flooding, with 18 warnings currently in place., external

The south of Scotland is expected to avoid the worst of the rain and snow, but will continue to be battered by high winds.

It comes after wind speeds on Sunday led to the cancellation of Edinburgh’s Torchlight Procession, which had been due to kick off the city’s Hogmanay events.

The city hosts Scotland’s biggest Hogmanay celebration, where crowds will gather for a street party and concert as part of a four-day festival.