Heavy rain and high winds will affect the Western Isles over the next two days as the remnants of Hurricane Katia heads across the Atlantic.
The eye of the weakening cyclone is expected to pass over the Western Isles around lunchtime on Monday. For a short period, heavy rain in the morning may relax to near calm conditions and sunny spells in places as it moves north east.
Rain and blustery winds are expected to feature for much of the day if the remains of the cyclone continues on its current track. However, it will not be cold with temperatures around 12º .
The brunt of the bad weather is due to hit the Hebrides on Tuesday with its intensity increasing towards the north. Barra may experience 60mph gusts on Tuesday.
Islanders should batten down the hatches, secure loose objects and take care when travelling.
Katia may not even qualify for storm status as it moves across the Western Isles and may be considered a strong gale.
The worst of the weather will affect central and southern Scotland. Travellers are being asked to take care tomorrow and to allow extra time.
A meeting of the Scottish Government Resilience Room (SGoRR) this afternoon heard
how power companies, transport providers and other partner agencies are preparing
for the potential impact of Post-
Preparations are being made for wind speeds of up to 60-
Transport Minister Keith Brown said: “A great deal of work is already well underway to ensure Scotland is prepared for any potential disruption.
“This afternoon I’ve convened a meeting of the Scottish Government’s Resilience Room, where I’ve been updated on the steps being taken by utilities, transport providers, police and others to make sure Scotland keeps moving.
“Transport Scotland’s Multi Agency Response Team has been activated and will be up and running before rush hour tomorrow morning. Extra power and transport staff are being moved in to areas likely to be affected, and utility companies are contacting their priority customers.
“Some strong winds and heavy rain are forecast for Monday and Tuesday, and forecasts suggest travel conditions are likely to be difficult. Robust contingency arrangements are in place so people should not panic but we should be prepared.
“For example, there is likely to be some disruption to roads, rail and ferry services, so travellers are advised to allow more time for journeys.”
Hurricane eye to pass over Hebrides 11/9/11
Hurricane Katia heading across the Atlantic is likely to be just a typical strong gale for much of the Western Isles.
Pix: NASA