Batten down the hatches

Worst storm of autumn poised to wreak havoc

SCOTLAND will be hit by 80mph winds this weekend as the worst storm of the autumn blows in from the Atlantic.

Coastal spots could become dangerous as winds coincide with spring tides, lashing seafronts with high waves.

Potential disruption is looming for roads, trains, ferries and air travel, with heavy rain expected tomorrow. Later in the day, winds pick up in the North and North-East of the country, with the Met Office issuing a severe weather warning.

Beginning at 8pm tomorrow, forecasters say it is likely coastal routes, causeways, seafronts and coastal communities will be hit by large waves, causing localised flooding. The flood risk is greatest in severe weather at this time of year because fallen leaves can block drains and culverts.

Meteorologists are not sure of the precise path of the storm but it is currently confined to Angus, Aberdeenshire, the Western Isles, Highland and Orkney.

High-sided vehicles could face restrictions on exposed routes and some homes could be hit with power cuts. West to north-westerly winds will widely blow between 60mph and 70mph in the warning area, with 80mph possible in some locations.

The storm will gradually ease on Sunday afternoon, with the warning period ending at 5pm.

Matthew Box of the Met Office said: ‘This is a deepening area of low pressure, out in the North Atlantic.

‘This event is tracking to the north of the UK, so winds will be strong across its southerly flanks.

‘There is still some uncertainty as to its position and depth and it’s possible wind warnings may have to change nearer the time.

‘It’s a case of “watch this space” but we do know it is going to be windy across the country on Saturday evening and into Sunday.’

This evening’s Guy Fawkes Night celebrations could be damp in some areas. Mr Box added: ‘We are seeing some drizzle or heavier periods of rain in the North and West, with much drier conditions in the East.’