Diana set to bring 60mph wind gusts

Scotland has been warned to brace for Storm Diana from tomorrow, heralding a very wet and windy end to the month.

The tempest was threatening the Azores yesterday before racing north to batter the south coast and then hit the Irish Sea.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency said officials were monitoring the situation over fears that heavy rain could add to snow melt, sparking flooding.

Winds of this speed have previously caused chaos on the roads, especially on major bridges where crossing is deemed unsafe.

Ferry operator Caledonian Macbrayne placed passengers on standby for delays and cancellations on many west coast routes as early as today. The company said it had received a forecast of winds hitting 61mph.

Most at risk are sailings from Ardrossan, Oban and Mallaig.

This will be the fourth “named” storm of the season. It was Christened by the Portuguese weather service due to its activity in the South Atlantic.

Met Office forecaster Nicky Maxey said:”we are seeing strong winds coming through on Wednesday. There will be unsettled conditions in the south and south-west.

“Gusts of 60mph can be anticipated.”