Severe weather warning issued for the West Coast and Highlands

Met Office warns of strong winds and transport disruptions across Scotland's West Coast.

As the Met Office forecasts severe weather conditions, residents and travelers in Scotland’s West Coast, Highlands, and Northern Isles are bracing for strong winds that are expected to hit overnight and continue into Thursday. The weather service has issued a yellow warning for wind, indicating that significant disruptions may occur.

Details of the weather warning

The yellow warning is set to take effect from 4 PM on Wednesday and will remain in place until 9 AM on Thursday. During this period, gusts of wind could reach up to 75 mph in certain coastal areas, while most locations are likely to experience gusts of around 60 mph.

These strong winds are anticipated to create hazardous sea swells, leading to large waves and potential spray along the coastline.

Impact on transport services

The Met Office has cautioned that the severe weather could lead to delays across various modes of transport, including road, rail, air, and ferry services. High-sided vehicles may face particular challenges on exposed routes and bridges, with the Skye Bridge currently closed to such vehicles. Travelers are advised to stay updated on the situation, as the weather has already disrupted numerous ferry routes operated by CalMac, affecting services from Oban, Ullapool, and Uig to the islands.

Current ferry service disruptions

As of now, 28 out of 30 CalMac services have been impacted by the adverse weather conditions, with many cancellations reported for the remainder of the day. While it remains uncertain whether further cancellations will occur on Thursday, passengers are encouraged to check the CalMac website for the latest updates and information regarding their travel plans.

In light of these developments, local residents are urged to exercise caution and prepare for potential disruptions. The community is advised to stay informed through reliable news sources and official weather updates to navigate the challenges posed by the impending storm.