Key Takeaways
- Heavy and persistent rain is expected throughout the day and into Sunday, with most areas seeing 30 to 50 mm of rain and higher areas potentially getting 100mm.
- Strong and gusty southwesterly winds will accompany the rain, increasing the risk of landslides in vulnerable areas.
- The Rest and Be Thankful section of the A83 is particularly at risk, with Bear Scotland closely monitoring conditions and implementing a short local diversion via the Old Military Road.
- Geotechnical inspections are planned for Monday, subject to improved weather conditions, to inform a decision on returning traffic to the A83.
- Road users are advised to check real-time journey information via Traffic Scotland’s social media accounts.
Introduction to Weather Conditions
Rain is expected to be persistent and heavy at times throughout the day and into Sunday, posing a significant risk to road users and infrastructure. The majority of areas within the warning zone are likely to experience 30 to 50 mm of rain, while higher areas could receive as much as 100mm. This excessive rainfall, combined with strong and gusty southwesterly winds, will increase the likelihood of landslides and other hazardous conditions. As a result, road users are advised to exercise caution and stay informed about the latest developments.
Vulnerability of the Rest and Be Thankful Section
The Rest and Be Thankful section of the A83, a steep climb out of Glen Croe near Arrochar, is notoriously vulnerable to landslides. This area has a history of instability, and the forecasted heavy rainfall over the weekend has raised concerns about the safety of road users. Euan Scott, the north west representative of Bear Scotland, which manages the road for Transport Scotland, emphasized that the safety of road users is the highest priority. Bear Scotland closely monitors conditions at the Rest and Be Thankful on a daily basis, taking proactive measures to mitigate potential risks.
Measures to Ensure Road User Safety
In response to the forecasted heavy rainfall, Bear Scotland has implemented a short local diversion along the Old Military Road. This diversion allows road users on the A83 corridor to complete their journeys safely, with minimal delays. By providing an alternative route, Bear Scotland aims to keep Argyll open for business, despite the challenging weather conditions. The use of the Old Military Road as a diversionary route ensures that road users can still access essential services and destinations, while minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries.
Plans for Geotechnical Inspections
Subject to the weather improving, Bear Scotland plans to carry out geotechnical inspections on Monday. These inspections will provide critical information about the stability of the hillside and inform a decision on returning traffic to the A83. By conducting thorough inspections, Bear Scotland can assess the risk of landslides and other hazards, ensuring that the road is safe for use before reopening it to traffic. This proactive approach demonstrates Bear Scotland’s commitment to prioritizing road user safety, even in the face of challenging weather conditions.
Importance of Staying Informed
People traveling over the weekend are advised to check real-time journey information via Traffic Scotland’s social media accounts. Staying informed about the latest developments and road conditions is crucial to ensuring a safe and smooth journey. By checking for updates, road users can plan their routes accordingly, avoiding areas of high risk and minimizing delays. This proactive approach enables road users to take control of their journeys, making informed decisions about their travel plans and reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.
