Warning of high winds across the county from Wednesday night

The Met Office has issued a Yellow Warning across Caithness and the rest of the country for high winds overnight on Wednesday and into Thursday this week.

Issued at 9.30am today (December 18) the warning states that overnight from Wednesday and into Thursday, strong west to northwesterly winds are likely to develop across a large swathe of the country.

The bulletin continues: "Quite widely winds are expected to peak with gusts reaching 50-60mph, however in some locations, such as exposed coastlines, plus over and to the east of high ground there is a chance that gusts of 70-80mph may be seen in some populated places.

"The exact areas and timing of the peak wind gusts speeds are yet to be fully determined, with a chance that this event could continue into Friday for some areas too."

Advice:

Prepare to protect your property and people from injury. Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds and fences.

Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.

If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea.

Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly. When a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.

What to expect

• There is a small chance of injuries and danger to life from flying debris
• There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
• There is a small chance of longer journey times or cancellations as road, rail, air and ferry services are affected
• There is a small chance that some roads and bridges could close
• There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
• There is a small chance that injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties

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