Met Office updates weather warning as 7 areas face ‘danger to life’ risk in 70mph winds

Met Office updates weather warning as 7 areas face ‘danger to life’ risk in 70mph winds The Met Office has updated a yellow wind warning for seven areas in northern Scotland, with 70mph gusts bringing a “danger to life” risk, travel disruption and possible power cuts. The Met Office has updated an existing yellow weather warning as seven UK areas continue to face a “danger to life” risk from strong winds. Northern Ireland and central Scotland have now been taken out of the warning zone after conditions improved, leaving the alert focused on parts of northern Scotland. The warning is also now due to end at 6pm on Tuesday, three hours earlier than previously forecast. The seven areas still covered are Aberdeenshire, Moray, Eilean Siar, Highland, Orkney Islands, Shetland Islands and Argyll and Bute. Strong west to southwesterly winds are expected to continue across northern Scotland, with gusts of 45mph to 55mph possible widely. Some coastal or exposed areas in the far north could see gusts reach 70mph before the strongest winds gradually ease from the southwest later on Tuesday. In an update, the Met Office said: "Strong west to southwesterly winds are expected to continue across northern Scotland during Tuesday. Gusts of 45-55 mph are possible quite widely but some coastal or exposed areas in the far north of Scotland could see gusts of 70 mph. "The strongest of the winds will reduce from the southwest later on Tuesday, with the far north of Scotland the last to see winds ease." Forecasters warned there is a chance of longer journey times or cancellations across road, rail, air and ferry services as the winds continue. Some roads and bridges could also close, while power cuts may affect other services including mobile phone coverage. There is a small chance of injuries and danger to life from flying debris, while some damage to buildings is also possible, including tiles being blown from roofs. Coastal areas could face further danger from large waves and beach material being thrown onto seafronts, coastal roads and properties. The strongest gusts are expected around exposed coastal areas, with winds of up to 70mph possible in the far north. People in affected areas are being urged to prepare for the conditions by securing loose items outside their homes, including bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds and fences. Those living near or visiting the coast have also been warned to take care around large waves. The Met Office said even large breaking waves from the shore can sweep people off their feet and out to sea. People walking near cliffs are being advised to know their route and keep dogs on a lead. Households are also being urged to prepare for possible power cuts by gathering torches, batteries, mobile phone power packs and other essential items. Travellers should check road conditions or bus and train timetables before setting off and amend their plans if necessary. Full list of areas affected GrampianAberdeenshireMoray Highlands and Eilean SiarEilean SiarHighland Orkney and ShetlandOrkney IslandsShetland Islands StrathclydeArgyll and Bute