Warning as wind and rain on way

WIND warnings have been issued for tomorrow and Saturday as a low-pressure system brings strong winds and heavy rain, and even sleet and snow in some places.

The latest weather update says the strongest winds will arrive across northern Scotland during tomorrow afternoon and will then spread across the rest of Scotland, Northern Ireland, and some exposed coasts of northern England by the evening, and the rest of the UK away from the far south east by Saturday.

Met Office deputy chief meteorologist, Chris Almond, said: ”Gusts of wind are likely to reach 50 to 60mph widely, with 70 to 80mph possible in coastal locations, particularly in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland.”

“As well as strong winds, rain will also move south across the country on Friday, with showers following turning increasingly to hill snow in the north.

“This wintry mix of showers will continue on Saturday, and although snow is possible almost anywhere away from the far-south, accumulations are likely to be confined to hills.”

It is going to be a windy period with potentially disruptive gales, the Met Office added.

These could cause some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport with a small chance exposed roads and bridges could close.

There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs and damage to temporary structures such as Christmas markets.

By Sunday any showers will mainly become confined to eastern coastal areas but there could still be some snow over the hills. ■■Weather graphic, Page 26