Warning of stormy weather as strong winds present 'danger to life'

Storm force winds are set to batter northern parts of Scotland with disruption to travel, especially ferry services, expected.

The northwest, Shetland and Orkney will face gusts of up to 85mph overnight on Sunday into Monday morning.

The Hebrides, and western coast of the Highlands and parts of Argyll and Bute have been warned to be prepared for flying debris presenting a “danger to life” and causing damage to buildings.

Experts are warning that the bad weather could lead to power cuts, road and bridge closures, and cancellations to air and ferry services.

A spell of very windy weather will move across northern parts of Scotland later on Sunday and into Monday morning

⚠️ Yellow weather warnings for wind have been issued with the latest info here 👉https://t.co/QwDLMfRBfs

Stay #WeatherAware pic.twitter.com/dA46Ze3p3U
— Met Office (@metoffice) December 11, 2021

It follows two named storms, Arwen and Barra, that brought widespread disruption to large parts of the country.

More than 100,000 homes had their power cut off by the extreme damage wrought by Storm Arwen on November 26 and 27.

Storm Barra disrupted supplies to around 10,000 just 11 days later on December 7.

STV weather presenter Philip Petrie said it was very nearly three in a row.

“The Met Office were keeping an eye on a low pressure system that is skirting along northwestern areas overnight on Sunday bringing with it very strong winds and squally, heavy showers.

“Although it is not a named storm, we will see some storm force winds”

The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for wind with the first coming into force from 9pm on Sunday covering the Western Isles, and parts of the Highlands and Argyll and Bute.

“Within this area there is the potential of gusts reaching 80-85mph causing disruption to ferries and also some damage and power cuts,” Philip said.

A further warning comes into effect at midnight on Sunday covering Orkney and Shetland.

“This warning lasts until midday Monday as the centre of the low pressure system moves close to the Northern Isles, again bringing gusts of 80-85mph along coasts and locally in excess of 90mph in some areas,” Philip said.

“It is very fast moving though, so will clear away by Monday afternoon, with things beginning to ease and calm by lunchtime. For the rest of the week things will continue to settle ahead of next weekend.”