An ill omen? Why we're not worried as Scotland rings in New Year with two days of torrential rain

In the olden days, we humans were a superstitious lot, always on the lookout for bad omens of one kind or another. Fortunately, in this age of science, reason and logic, we’re beyond such childish fears.

So the fact that the final two days of 2024 are expected to see a torrential downpour – that not so much rings in the New Year as downs it – is in no way causing us to succumb to an attack of the jitters. Some parts of Scotland could see up to 14cm of rain (that’s nearly half a foot in old money) within just 48 hours, a forecast that’s prompted the Met Office to issue a ‘yellow’ weather warning for virtually the whole country.

Heavy rain could make for treacherous driving conditions on Monday and Tuesday (Picture: Jeff J Mitchell) | Getty Images

Amid fears of deepening climate chaos, not to mention a Third World War, it may seem like an ill portent, but we’re sure everything will be fine in the end, probably. In the meantime, we suggest wellies, umbrellas and a weather eye on the Met Office’s warnings, in case floods are coming your way. Whatever your plans for Hogmanay, make sure to stay safe.