Travel disruption warning as gales batter Scotland

THE Met Office has issued an amber alert, warning of severe gales expected to sweep across central, southern and western Scotland today.

Forecasters say high winds, reaching up to 70mph, will strike the Central Belt and the west coast from the morning onwards, before heading further north and east. They say travel disruption is possible.

There is a potential for gusts of up to 90mph on some exposed areas of the west coast.

A Met Office spokesman said: “There will also be frequent showers across northern and north-western areas, with some hill snow. It will be feeling much colder than recent days.”

A spokesman for Transport Scotland said: “Although transport networks are expected to be quieter than usual, with schools and many businesses still on holiday, some travel disruption is likely and those who are travelling are advised to plan their journeys in advance.

“For most areas, the strongest winds will occur from late morning and through the afternoon, although the eastern Highlands and North-east Scotland will see the strongest winds during the evening.”

He also warned of some coastal flooding and bridges being closed to high-sided vehicles.