Gales and rain but Western Isles set to avoid worst of Storm Darragh’s wrath

7 December 2024

The most violent winds from Storm Darragh is forecast to stay well to the south of the Hebrides today (Saturday) unlike much of Wales where a red warning for this morning is in place amid predicted destructive ‘life-threatening’ 90mph gusts.

With the exception of the Western Isles and north Highlands, severe weather warnings have been issued across the UK.

Impacts locally are expected to be strong and very chilly gale force winds - up to force nine at times - as well as rain and rough seas as the top edge of Darragh stretches towards the north.

Islanders should keep an eye on the latest forecast details.

CalMac warns of the possibility for ferry disruption and cancellations on Saturday.

Strong winds up to 60mph are forecast for Barra prompting the Sound of Barra to remain in harbour all day.

Ferry services for Lochmaddy and Tarbert are liable to disruption or cancellation at short notice. The Sound of Harris route may be similarly affected.

Due to a forecast of strong winds and sea swell conditions, the afternoon and evening passenger sailings between Stornoway and Ullapool risk being called off.

Neither the Lochboisdale or the Castlebay ferry would have likely ventured out today. The South Uist link has been out of action for weeks due to the lack of a vessel while no sailings were scheduled today for Barra.