Caledonian MacBrayne ferry skippers are closely monitoring a deep area of low pressure heading towards the west coast.

The weather system heralds a two day spell of rough seas and strong winds.

The strongest winds are expected on the southern flank of the depression which may hit Uist and Barra ferry routes from tomorrow morning.

With wind speeds possibly reaching force eight gale level, skippers are keeping an eye on the speed and track of the low as it heads this way.

Three Western Isles ferry services are already on disruption alert for Thursday.

The first Thursday morning sailings on the Sound of Barra crossing are cancelled while the rest of the day’s schedule is liable to disruption or cancellation at short notice warns CalMac.

MV Isle of Lewis will remain in Castlebay over Thursday due to strong south westerly winds and a high sea swell.

With one stabiliser out of action, MV Lord of the Isles has been forced to cancel her run to and from Mallaig.

Further disruption details for west coast sailings are possible as forecasts are updated.

CalMac ferry sailing cancellations in gale force winds forecast

26 June 2024