Van flipped over by violent winds

4 March 2025

High winds slammed into the vehicle Photo: Tom Thrope

A van was blown off the road during wild weather in Harris today (Tuesday).

Fierce gusts tipped the vehicle onto its side as very strong winds battered the island this morning.

Locals say, with a gale blowing from a certain direction, the wind roaring down the Clisham mountain mean localised wind speeds can be much higher than forecast on the stretch of road on which the incident occurred.

The A859 is Tom Thrope said: “That corner is a really windy section.

“In a south westerly, the wind comes off the Clisham and down Glen Scaladale. The wind today felt like it was 20 to 30 knots over the forecast.”

Scalpay Bridge was closed to lorries and high sided vehicles due to high winds.

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar said today’s planned collection of recycling and organic bins in Scalpay did not take take place and will be rescheduled to Thursday.

Heavy spray and stones coming over the seawall driven by the strong onshore wind and high tide affected the Bràighe Road this morning.

Strong winds from the same direction are expected to continue on Wednesday.