Travel disruption reported throughout Scotland as Storm Ashley hits 

“Winds will then likely turn south-westerly, with a period of especially strong winds possible during Sunday afternoon and evening in western Scotland where gusts could potentially reach 70-80mph in exposed areas, and more generally 55-65mph in other parts of the warning area.

“These strong winds in conjunction with high spring tides may cause some disruption.”

STV News Meteorologist Philip Petrie has said Storm Ashley will go through what is called explosive cyclogenesis – or a “weather bomb”.

He said: “During Saturday night, Storm Ashley crossed the jet stream, so the relatively slack low-pressure system that it begins life as will move across what is essentially a 200mph wind stream.

“As it does this, it goes through what is called explosive cyclogenesis (or a “weather bomb”). This means the low pressure deepens rapidly into an extremely deep area of low pressure—aka Storm Ashley.”

An amber wind warning covering the Western Isles, parts of Caithness and Sutherland and parts of Argyll and Bute will run from 9am Sunday until midnight. Within this area, we expect to see gusts of between 70-80mph.

Locals have been warned of delays to ferry services and flights to the islands due to strong winds and high spring tides.

Short term loss of power may also occur and locals have been warned to stay away from sea fronts due to the risk of high waves.

Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, Police Scotland’s Head of Road Policing, said: “The amber warning for high winds means that there is a strong likelihood of disruption on the road network and as such, motorists are advised to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary travel where possible.

“Make sure your vehicle has sufficient fuel and is completely roadworthy, with tyre pressure and tread meeting legal requirements. Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged in the event you need to call for assistance and if it is likely you may be within your vehicle for long periods of time, take additional clothing and water with you.

“Please do not ignore any road signage advising of changes to speed or closures to routes. These are in place for your safety and the safety of other road users and listen out for media broadcasts about the weather and how it may be impacting travel.

“Further information of the weather and road closures can be found by visiting the Met Office, Ready Scotland and Traffic Scotland websites and social media accounts.”

The Enchanted Forest has been cancelled for Sunday night as Storm Ashley prompted safety fears.