Police Scotland has issued a warning to Scots residents in anticipation of Storm Ashley’s impact. The Met Office has raised an Amber warning for the Highlands, Eilean Siar, and Argyll and Bute from 9 am to midnight on Sunday. Additionally, a yellow weather warning for rain covers the rest of the country from midnight until 9 am on Monday. Motorists are advised by Police Scotland to plan their journeys carefully and avoid unnecessary travel where feasible due to the expected disruptions on roads. Transport Scotland has also cautioned of probable delays in public transport services, including the ferry network.
Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, the head of road policing at Police Scotland, emphasised the importance of ensuring vehicles are roadworthy, topped up with fuel, and equipped with a fully charged mobile phone in case of emergencies. With the storm being classified as a “category 3 cyclone” by the Met Office, wind speeds could reach up to 110mph in certain areas, and 50-60mph winds might be experienced inland. The strong winds coincide with high spring tides and large waves, increasing the risk of coastal disruptions.
Met Office meteorologist Dan Stroud warned of severe gales and the likelihood of very large waves due to high spring tides on Sunday. Dangerous gale force winds are expected to persist into Monday morning, potentially causing fallen debris and trees that could impact commuters at the beginning of the week. In light of the impending storm, various events and transport services have been affected, including the cancellation of Sunday’s Great South Run in Portsmouth, services by ScotRail having precautionary speed restrictions, and disruptions to ferry services by CalMac on the west coast of Scotland.
The weather forecast for Sunday indicates strong winds, heavy rain, and storm-force winds in the north-west of Scotland. Meteorologist Ellie Glaisyer predicts gusts of 70-80mph in western Scotland during the afternoon, with drier conditions expected in England and Wales later in the day. While winds are forecasted to ease on Monday with rain moving into the southeast, the north is anticipated to remain blustery throughout the week. Flood warnings have been issued in various areas, highlighting the potential risk of flooding in multiple regions.
Given the severity of Storm Ashley, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this period of extreme weather conditions. With disruptions expected across different sectors, it is essential for individuals to stay informed of the latest updates and follow guidance provided by relevant agencies to minimise any risks associated with the storm.