A gale warning has been issued for the Hebrides area as a developing depression passes across northern Scotland today.
Very strong southwesterly winds are forecast to bring an exceptionally mild, moisture laden airstream.
The unsettled weather will continue over the next couple of days before a ridge of high pressure builds northwards across the United Kingdom through Saturday night and Sunday.
Winds are due to rise in strength from Thursday night.
The gale could peak at severe gale force nine on Friday afternoon or early evening, with gusts around 50 to 60mph predicted.
The strongest conditions are likely to be from Harris southwards.
Strong winds forecast
1 January 2015