Warning to avoid unnecessary travel as storm Isha sweeps in

Scots have been warned to avoid unnecessary travel tomorrow as Storm is has weeps in, with gusts of up to 60 mph expected and an amber warning issued.

The Met Office warning for strong winds and rain covers an area from south of Stirling into northern England from 6pm tomorrow until 9am on Monday.

A yellow warning for wind is in place for the whole of Scotland for 24 hours from midday on Sunday, and yellow warnings for rain have been issued for central Scotland up to Inverness and for southern Scotland for tomorrow into Monday.

Snow and ice is anticipated across central and northern Scotland with a warning already in place, and a new yellow warning for rain covering the area from the north of Glasgow towards Fort William has been issued for tonight between 5pm and midnight.

Gusts of up to 50-60mph, or more, are expected tomorrow, which could impact transport services and present challenging conditions for both motorists and pedestrians. Flights and ferries are predicted to be impacted, and debris could be swept on to roads.

The high winds could lead to restrictions and closures on roads and bridges, and increased surface spray will make visibility difficult and could result in localised flooding. Police have warned anyone travelling to take care.

Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, Police Scotland’s head of road policing, said: “The amber warning for high winds means that there is a strong likelihood of disruption on the road network and motorists are advised to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary travel where possible.

“If you do require to make a journey, then consider delaying until the weather conditions improve. However, if this is not possible then please ensure both you and your vehicle are suitably equipped to deal with the conditions you could face. Make sure your vehicle has sufficient fuel and is completely roadworthy, with tyre pressure and tread meeting legal requirements.

“Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged in the event you need to call for assistance and if it is likely you may be within your vehicle for long periods of time, take additional clothing and water with you.

“Please do not ignore any road signage advising of changes to speed or closures to routes.”