A new flood warning scheme which will protect more than 9,000 properties was launched in Inverness today.
Seventeen coastal communities at risk of sea surge flooding on the Moray Firth, from Wick in Caithness to Fraserburgh in Aberdeenshire, will benefit from the improved service.
It was introduced to representatives of several organisations by minister for environment and climate change, MSP Paul Wheelhouse, at Inverness Town House.
Among those in attendance were officers from the police and fire services, and the three councils areas involved, Highland, Moray, and Aberdeenshire.
The flood warning service will be provided by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) to areas badly affected by flooding in recent years.
Mr Wheelhouse said: “We do not have to go back too far to remember the severe flooding and damage to areas all along the coastline in 2012.
“Flood warning systems can give people the time to take action to protect their homes and businesses from the worst impact of coastal flooding.”
SEPA has arranged a series of drop-in events, which are open to the public, at Inverness Town House today, Lossiemouth town hall on Wednesday, and Bridge Street community centre in Banff on Thursday – all between 2.30pm and 7pm.