Storm set for Tayside

70mph winds expected in region on Christmas Eve

FORECASTERS have warned Tayside is set be battered by Storm Barbara — with winds of up to 70mph expected over the festive period.

A Met Office yellow “be aware” weather warning is i n place for Dundee, Angus, Perth & Kinross and Fife through to the morning of Christmas Eve.

The turbulent weather is a result of a deep depression — christened Barbara by forecasters — which is set to move north-east across the Atlantic.

Depressions are areas of low atmospheric pressure which produce cloudy, rainy and windy weather.

Forecasters have warned the storm could cause structural damage and issues with the power supply.

There is also a strong likelihood of travel disruption on Friday and Saturday morning — with festive travellers warned to expect delays.

A spokesman for the Met Office said he could not rule out the possibility of Tayside being badly affected by the incoming storm — and there is a chance wind speeds could reach 70mph.

An amber “be prepared” weather warning has also been issued for parts of northern Scotland, with a chance of 90mph winds.

The Met Office spokesman said: “There will be an amber warning out for wind from midday Friday until 6am on Saturday across western Scotland and other areas are under a yellow warning for wind.

“Westerly winds gusting up to 90mph are likely across parts of western and northern Scotland later on Friday and overnight into Saturday.

“Yellow warning areas could see gusts of up to 70mph. Winds are then expected to moderate on Saturday morning.

“The storm will be making its way across the country throughout the day on Friday.”

The spokesman said the Met Office will be monitoring the weather situation past Christmas Eve and into Christmas Day and would update weather warnings appropriately.

The warning is currently valid from 9am on Friday until 9am on Saturday.

Forecasters have warned that 70mph winds are set to hit Tayside.