PARTS of Scotland could be impacted by flooding and severe gales following the arrival of Storm Kathleen, the Met Office has warned.

A yellow weather warning for wind remains in place across parts of central and southern Scotland as meteorologists says gusts of up to 70mph could occur over the weekend.

The warning covers Glasgow, Edinburgh and Stirling as well as western parts of the Borders and Argyll, Islay and Arran. It will be in place from 8am to 10pm on Saturday, April 6.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has also issued 28 flood warnings and 16 flood alerts across the country.

A spokesperson said: “With the arrival of Storm Kathleen over the weekend, we’ll see very high winds as well as spring high tides which are likely to cause coastal flooding due to a high storm surge, large waves, and spray overtopping to coastal areas of Scotland.

“Property flooding, flooding of roads and disruption to infrastructure is possible.”

A limit on trains speeds is also being brought in by Network Rail on Saturday for safety reasons, with the operator warnings that journeys may take longer than expected as a result of the weather.

Those travelling by car are also being told to exercise caution on the roads.

Rod Dennis, spokesperson for breakdown insurance company RAC, said: “This intense period of stormy weather is going to prove extremely challenging for anyone driving on the western side of the UK.

“We strongly urge drivers to avoid exposed coasts and higher routes where the impact of the very strong winds is most likely to be felt.

“It’s vital to slow down, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel at all times, and be prepared for the buffeting effect which can occur when overtaking high-sided vehicles.

“Leaving a much larger gap between vehicles also allows drivers to react quickly in the event of falling branches or flying debris.”