Storm Barbara is set to bring gale-force winds of up to 90mph to parts of Scotland, northern England and Northern Ireland over Christmas, with forecasters warning of potential power cuts, ferry delays and bridge closures.
The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for the Scottish Highlands and Shetlands, where gusts of 80-90mph are expected overnight on Friday into Christmas Eve. Parts of Northern Ireland and northern England will also be affected, with winds of 60-80mph forecast.
Nicky Maxey from the Met Office urged people to reconsider travel plans, stating: “It has the potential to be quite disruptive so we would urge people to think about their travel arrangements if they’re trying to get away for Christmas.” She warned of possible disruption to power supplies, ferries, flights and bridge restrictions.
The RAC predicts 3.5 million drivers will take to the roads on Friday, with 3.8 million expected on Christmas Eve. Snowfall of up to 10cm is forecast in upland areas of western and central Highlands. Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne has already reported disruptions to 21 of its 26 routes, with several services cancelled.
