The Met Office has extended the duration of a severe weather warning for the Western Isles.
Stormy conditions will create travel disruption including ferry upheaval.
A previous warning was confined to the Saturday only but has now runs until 9pm on Sunday. It has been widen fromthe Western Isles and west coast areas to include the whole of Scotland.
Travel on causeways may be hazardous particularly in the Western Isles.
Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties warns the Met Office.
Gusts over 80mph are expected in exposed places around the Western Isles particularly on Saturday which is presently forecast to see the highest windspeeds.
A busier than usual travel period in the run up to Christmas is also a factor which may result in an increased chance of impacts.
On Sunday, gusts 70 mph are possible in the Hebrides. In addition, squally showers are likely with some hail and thunder at times.
Very strong westerly winds are expected to develop through the course of Saturday
in association with a deep area of low pressure, with gusts of 65-75 mph expected.
There is a small chance that gusts in excess of 80 mph could occur across this region. Dangerous coastal conditions can be expected too, with large waves an additional hazard, especially in respect to causeways.
Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, could happen
Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage.
Some delays to public transport are likely, as well as disruption to travel by road. There is a small chance of significant delays or even cancellations to services however, including ferry and air, whilst some roads, bridges and causeways may be closed.
Weather warning for strong winds extended over Christmas weekend
19 December 2024
