The Hebrides are set to escape the worst of incoming bad weather as the eye of a storm sweeps over the islands.
But some ferry and air services may still be affected with 50mph gusts predicted in Uist and Barra.
A deep area of low-
Named ‘Storm Erik’ by Met Éireann, the strongest and most damaging winds are expected in the Republic of Ireland.
In addition to the strong winds, bands of heavy rain will sweep eastwards on Friday.
A gale or severe gale is forecast for the Western Isles on Friday but winds will ease as the centre of the storm moves up the Minch.
But wind speeds will increase again from Saturday morning as the eye heads north eastwards towards Scandinavia.
Strong gusts are also expected to affect the islands on Sunday.
Met Office chief meteorologist, Will Lang, said: “Southwesterly winds will strengthen across the UK on Friday, so it’s going to be a windy day for everyone.
“Across southern parts of the UK gusts will reach 40mph widely inland, however the strongest winds are expected across Northern Ireland and Scotland, with gusts of 50 to 60mph possible.”
Storm Erik to track over Western Isles
7 February 2019
Storm Erik is forecast to run up the length of the Western Isles on Friday
Met Office