Forecasters have issued a flood warning with heavy rain forecast for much of Southwest Scotland tonight. 

An Amber alert - the second highest - has been issued by the Met Office for Dumfries and Galloway, parts of the Borders and stretching north into the Central belt. 

Forecasters are advising motorists and residents of a risk of flooding and difficult driving conditions, which could lead to some road closures in the area and public transport cancellations.  

Traffic Scotland has also issued a warning to drivers.

The Amber alert also says there could be a "danger to life" from fast flowing or deep floodwaters. 

Homes and businesses could face flooding, and the alert also warns of a risk of damage to some buildings. 

The heavy band of rain is expected to arrive around 9pm and last through the night, with the alert being lifted at 9am on Thursday. 

The Scottish Evironment Protection Agency (SEPA) has flood alerts in place for West Central Scotland, the Borders and Dumfries and Galloway.

Its advice states: "Heavy rain is forecast to affect this area on Wednesday and Thursday.

"This could lead to flooding impacts from rivers and surface water. Typical impacts could include flooding of land and roads, disruption to travel and infrastructure, and flooding of properties.

"Impacts are most likely to occur in the east of the area, but are also possible further west."