Scotland is bracing for the first named storm of the season, Storm Ashley, which is expected to bring high winds and heavy rain this weekend. The Met Office has issued an amber high wind warning for western areas on Sunday, with gusts of 70-80 mph (113-129km/h) expected. It has also issued a yellow alert for high winds gusting up to 60 mph (97km/h) across the whole country. Northern areas will see this alert extend over the Monday morning rush hour.
Meteorologists are predicting a rapid drop in pressure as Storm Ashley moves in from the Atlantic on Saturday night – a phenomenon called a “weather bomb”. This will result in high winds which, coupled with the high spring tides, brings a risk of large waves and coastal overtopping. The phrase ‘weather bomb’ is taken from the US term “bombogenesis” and used to describe a fall of at least 24 millibars of pressure in 24 hours.
The amber warning area stretches from Argyll to Cape Wrath in the north and encompasses the country’s island communities. The Met Office has warned of a good chance of power cuts in this area and has advised that there could be damage to buildings such as tiles being blown off, some bridge and road closures, and ferry and train cancellations. During the amber alert period, which runs from 09:00 on Sunday to midnight, there is a risk to life from high waves.
According to officials from Transport Scotland, all areas in Scotland can expect some degree of travel disruption on Sunday. HGVs will be particularly affected, and drivers have been advised to look out for fallen trees or debris on the roads. Ch Supt Hilary Sloan, who is head of road policing at Police Scotland, has urged drivers in the amber alert area to plan ahead and ensure their vehicle is sufficiently fuelled and roadworthy.
The Met Office also advises people to check for loose items outside their homes such as garden furniture and trampolines. The storm presents great danger, and as people travel out and about, they must take all necessary precautions to stay safe
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