Warning: Amber

To expect: Wind

Affected areas: Grampian, Highlands and Eilean Siar, Orkney and Shetland, Strathclyde

Start time estimate: Friday 6pm

End time estimate: Saturday 12am

Storm Amy prompts the Met Office to issue an updated Amber wind warning for several regions across the UK for Friday and Saturday.

The warning is covering parts of Grampian, Highlands and Eilean Siar, Orkney and Shetland, Strathclyde. All local areas affected are listed below.

High winds are set to hit several areas on Friday at around 6pm. The severe winds are expected to continue sweeping through the areas until Saturday 12am.

The updated Amber warning for wind was announced at 11:27am on Thursday, October 2.

A Met Office forecast said: “Storm Amy will bring a spell of damaging winds, initially in western areas during Friday evening before gradually transferring northeastwards through the night. During this period, wind gusts of 60-70 mph are likely fairly widely, with 70-80 mph in more exposed areas, and may reach 100 mph in some exposed parts of western Scotland, particularly around Tiree, western Lochaber and Skye for a time this evening. This will lead to dangerous conditions with travel and power disruption.”

What to expect

Roads, bridges and railway lines are likely to close, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights; There is a good chance that power cuts could occur and possibly affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage; Damage to buildings and homes is likely, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down; There is a good chance that flying debris could result in a danger to life; Large waves are likely and beach material is likely to be thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.

What should you do?

Windy weather can cause delays and make travel conditions dangerous, consider if you journey is necessary and amend your travel plans if necessary. Bus and train services may be delayed so ensure you check for updates. It is safer not to drive in these conditions, but if you must drive you can do this more safely by taking the following actions: check road conditions before setting out leaving yourself extra time; drive slowly to minimise the impact of wind gusts and be aware of high sided vehicles/caravans especially when overtaking; and, carry essentials in your car (warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, and in-car phone charger). Don’t risk injury to others or damage to your property. Check for loose items outside your home and secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences. Being outside in high winds makes you more vulnerable to injury. Stay indoors as much as possible. If you do go out, try not to walk, or shelter close to buildings and trees. People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items. If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves, even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Stay up to date with the weather forecast for your area and follow advice from emergency services and local authorities For further details see Met Office Warnings & Advice.

Full list of local regions affected

Grampian
Moray

Highlands and Eilean Siar
Eilean Siar, Highland

Orkney and Shetland
Orkney Islands

Strathclyde
Argyll and Bute

What is an updated amber weather warning?

The Met Office has three categories of weather warning, depending on the likely impact of severe weather and also how likely it is to strike in a particular area.

A yellow warning is issued when weather conditions are expected to disrupt travel and traffic and may impact on daily routines but are not likely to pose a risk to life or property.

An amber warning is more severe and advises people to think about changing their plans to minimise the risk.

A red warning means weather conditions are expected to be dangerous with widespread damage to property and a risk to life, with the public usually advised to avoid travelling.

The Amber weather alert for wind will remain in effect until 12am on Saturday.