The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for wind covering north western Scotland, with gusts of up to 70mph expected in coastal and hilly locations. The warning is in place from 10am today until 7pm, and brings the possibility of power cuts and travel disruption.
Warning details and affected areas
Gusts of 50 to 60mph are expected widely, with some exposed coastal and hilly locations seeing gusts of around 70mph late morning and early afternoon. The warning states: "Strong south to southwesterly winds are expected during Wednesday. Gusts of 50 to 60 mph are expected widely, with some exposed coastal and hilly locations seeing gusts of around 70 mph late morning and early afternoon. Winds ease from the west through the late afternoon and early evening."
The two specific areas affected by the warning are Na h-Eileanan Siar in the Outer Hebrides and part of the western Highlands.
Transport and power impacts
The bad weather conditions are "likely" to bring some transport disruption, including delays to road, air and ferry transport. Some bus and train services will also probably be affected, "with some journeys taking longer", the forecaster said. The Met Office added: "Some short-term loss of power and other services is possible."
Sailings on a number of Calmac ferry routes have been cancelled or disrupted today as a result of the weather, with some disruption continuing into Thursday. ScotRail said heavy rainfall also means speed restrictions are expected to be in place on the West Highland Line between Fort William and Mallaig throughout Wednesday and until Thursday at 10am.
UK forecast and overnight outlook
A general UK forecast for today from the Met Office reads: "A windy day across the north, especially northwest Scotland with severe gales here. Dry and bright for most, with the best of the sunshine towards the south. Skies clouding over in the northwest, with patchy rain across Scotland. Rather warm."
While the country will remain "mild" overnight, heavy rain and brisk winds will move southeastwards across Scotland and Northern Ireland. These will be followed by clear spells and showers. Much of England and Wales will remain dry.
