Warning: Yellow

To expect: Wind

Affected areas: Highlands and Eilean Siar, Strathclyde

Start time estimate: Tuesday 3pm

End time estimate: Wednesday 10am

The Met Office has announced a Yellow wind warning for Highlands and Eilean Siar as well as Strathclyde for Tuesday and Wednesday. All local areas affected are listed below.

The regions will be impacted by strong gusts, starting at around 3pm on Tuesday. The intense winds will continue sweeping through the areas until Wednesday 10am.

The Yellow warning for wind was issued at 11:15am on Sunday, December 7.

A Met Office forecast said: “A deep area of low pressure passing close to western Scotland on Tuesday may bring some very strong southwesterly winds to west and northwest Scotland on Tuesday evening and night. Peak gusts around 60 mph are possible fairly widely, and potentially in excess of 70 mph for some exposed headlands and high ground. There is a small chance of even stronger winds should the area of low pressure pass closer to western Scotland. Winds should gradually ease through Wednesday morning.”

What to expect

Some delays to road, air and ferry transport are likely; Probably some bus services affected, with some journeys taking longer; Delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges likely; Some short term loss of power and other services is possible; It’s likely that some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities will be affected by spray and/or large waves.

What should you do during gale-force winds?

Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary. 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. Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area. For further details see Met Office Warnings & Advice.

Full list of local regions affected

Highlands and Eilean Siar
Eilean Siar, Highland

Strathclyde
Argyll and Bute

What is a yellow 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 Yellow weather alert for wind will remain in place until 10am on Wednesday.