Upgraded flood alert system goes live in the Scottish Borders

Flood protection experts believe they are more prepared than ever to provide warnings to at-risk communities across the country.

Warning areas and potential impact

The Scottish Borders is the latest region to have its early warning systems upgraded ahead of expected downpours throughout autumn and winter.

A full review and recalibration of data and monitoring was completed earlier this year, using the latest rainfall and water-level data.

Team manager Karin Bloodworth said: "A lot of work has gone into making these alerts as accurate as possible – we're using the best available data from our rivers."

The latest government figures warn that one in eight properties across Scotland is under threat from flooding.

Despite two major flood defence schemes being completed in the Borders, at Selkirk and Hawick, thousands of low-lying properties in the area remain at risk.

SEPA hope the expansion of flood warning areas and updated modelling will provide earlier and more accurate alerts.

Bloodworth added: "There are a lot of upgrades going on – especially here in Scottish Borders where we're going into the first autumn and winter with our improved Scottish Borders flood warning service.