Warning issued as Atlantic storm bears down on Western Isles
3 October 2022
A deepening Atlantic low hurtling towards the islands is intensifying on its northerly course.
Currently the eye of the low is forecast to head up the Minch on Wednesday morning.
However, at this stage, details of its exact track and peak wind strengths are still uncertain.
There is a chance of gusts of 70 to 80 mph in the Hebrides and northern Scotland on Wednesday.
The Met Office has issued weather warnings for strong winds and heavy rain for Scotland.
The most likely scenario is for gusts of 55 to 65 mph within parts of the warning area, most likely the northern Irish Sea and parts of eastern Scotland, bringing some more localised impacts.
In addition, heavy rain may prove an additional hazard across northwestern areas.
The Met Office warns of a small chance of injuries and danger to life from flying debris.
People are urged to show caution along sea fronts and coastal roads as injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown ashore.
There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
Ferry and other transport services may be affected while some roads and bridges could close
There is also a risk of power cuts with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
The centre of the storm is heading for the Hebrides on Wednesday