Hurricane Katia alert for Hebrides 9/9/11
Heavy rain and severe gales are forecast to affect parts of Scotland over the weekend, strengthening into next week.
The remnants of tropical storm Katia will move in from the Atlantic and bring heavy rain and severe gales, with the chance of storm force winds in the north.
There is still some uncertainty regarding the track of the system and the areas likely to be most affected.
The area of low pressure and gales/severe gales will lead to very high seas.
In the Western Isles, wind speeds are expected to increase from tonight, turning into a gale by late tomorrow. The weather would worsen with stronger winds on Sunday. It risks turning into a full blown storm on Monday.
The predicted high winds could coincide with high tides in the Hebrides and low lying ground could be at risk from localised flooding.
Travelling over causeways and low coastal ground may be affected. The peak of very high tides on Monday will occur between roughly 7 and 9 am and again around the same times in the evening.
Islanders are advised to ensure loose objects are secured. Drivers should be aware of large areas of standing water.
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and its community planning partners are monitoring weather conditions in the light of the weather alert.