North braced for Storm Abigail's hooley!
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THE North of Scotland is on wild weather alert as Storm Abigail sweeps in from the west.
Forecasters have upgraded Abigail to an amber alert - Be Prepared - from the earlier yellow Be Aware category.
Amber is covering the Western Isles and west coast while a yellow warning is in force for the rest of Scotland.
Police warned of potential travel disruption and power cuts as the Highlands and Islands are hit by severe gales up to 90mph with heavy rain and lighting from 9pm on Thursday lasting through to noon on Friday.
Warnings were issued of large waves which may crash over costal routes and causeways. A police spokesman at Inverness said: "There is a strong possibility of disruption to public transport and power utilities.
"Members of the public, businesses and communities are advised to plan ahead and prepare for possible power outages ahead of the storm. Where possible, secure outdoor items which could be dangerous in the wind. It is also asked that communities look out for vulnerable neighbours."
Ferry operator CalMac has urged travellers to think carefully about their plans for the end of this week if planning to visit the west coast as sailors battend down the hatches for Storm Abigail, the first storm to be officially named by the Met Office.
CalMac operations director Drew Collier, said: "There is clear warning that major weather related disruption to ferry services on the Clyde and Hebrides routes is likely so I would urge people to factor this in when making travel plans.
"The sea conditions we are expecting could well be too treacherous to sail in."
Storm Abigail is likely to bring gusts of 60 to 70mph, potentially rising to speeds of up to 80 or 90mphmph, producing waves up to 11 metres (36ft) high.
Mr Colier added: "As always weather systems change very quickly so I would urge the travelling public to check the our website and our social media feeds for the very latest information, but disruption, including cancellation of services is likely if the forecasts are accurate."
It was announced that the Mallaig - Skye ferry was not going to be running on Thursday.
SEPA urged the public to check their website for active flood warnings. Members of the public should call SEPA’s Floodline on 0345 988 1188, for the most up to date information on their area.
Where there are disruptions to power the public are advised to call SSE on 0800 300 999.
