Multiple weather warnings in place for Dumfries and Galloway

Ferry services to and from Cairnryan have been cancelled due to the weather warning. Credit: PA Images

Travel disruption is being felt across Dumfries and Galloway.

Ferry services have been cancelled after Met Office yellow weather warnings for wind and rain.

In a statement the Met Office said: "Southerly winds will increase on Friday morning, with gusts of 50-60 mph likely for exposed coasts and hills of western Britain.

"Some parts of the warning area may see gusts of 70 mph for a time. Winds ease from the west during the afternoon.

"Following a wet few days, further spells of heavy rain are expected through the course of Friday. High ground is most likely to see the highest rainfall totals, with 30-40mm possible in the space of 6 hours or so, and close to 70mm by the time rain eases Friday evening."

Police Scotland also advised that Operation Overload was activated at midnight due to the number of cancelled ferry sailings between Cairnryan and Northern Ireland.

There are multiple weather warnings in place for the majority of Dumfries and Galloway. Credit: Met Office

What is Operation Overload?

Operation Overload was set-up by Transport Scotland and other organisations and signed off as a contingency plan in case of disruption at Cairnryan port.

The Scottish Government signed a lease with the owner of Castle Kennedy airfield so that it can hold up to 240 goods vehicles with the aiming to manage queues to stop disruption to local communities.

In a statement Police Scotland said: "Those booked on to any of the affected sailings are advised not to travel to the area due to the impending weather warning and delays are expected.

"They should instead seek alternative travel options elsewhere. Please check with Stenaline and P&O Ferries as appropriate for updates on your sailing."Freight drivers who must attend the area are advised to follow instructions from port operators and Police Scotland about accessing the Operation Overflow site while the cancellations are in place."

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