SCOTTISH Borders Council have taken action to repair flood defences on Jed water at Richmond Row after increased water levels damaged gabions.

The urgent work was welcome as Amber and Yellow weather warnings for rain and wind have been issued for the Borders over the weekend, as well as SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency) announcing a flood alert for the Borders.

The gabion baskets (wire cages filled with stones) were likely damaged by large debris striking the bank when the river level was raised earlier this week.

The damage, which has successfully been repaired, ensures that the 11 properties near the site will have the same flood protection as usual.

A council spokesperson said: "The Council and Scottish Borders Housing Association have agreed that there is no need for an evacuation of residents. 
"SBHA are discussing individual residents’ needs with them."

The Amber warning will be in place from 12pm on Saturday, February 15, until 11pm.

The council spokesperson added: "Combined with melting snow, this could lead to flooding, not only associated with increased river levels but also run off from hills. 
"There are significant concerns about the impact on Hawick, Jedburgh, Newcastleton and the Ettrick Valley.
"The Council continues to liaise closely with the Met Office and SEPA and is making all necessary preparations for the forecasted weather, including replenishing sandbag stores and stocks and pre-distributing to key areas."

The areas outlined by the council as being at risk also faced some of the greater effects of flooding after last weekend's Storm Ciara, most notably Hawick which saw a local guesthouse collapse into the Teviot.

The Yellow warning of high winds are expected to last until Monday, with the Met Office predicting top speeds of 70mph.

A Met Office spokesperson said: "A band of rain and strong winds will move eastwards across western, southern and central Scotland and Northern Ireland on Saturday. 
"South to southwesterly winds will gust to 50 to 60 mph along exposed coasts and over high ground. 
"In addition some heavy rainfall is expected at times with accumulations of up to 40 mm on high ground. 
"This may lead to some local flooding, especially where coupled with snow melt over parts Scotland."