UPDATE: Dozens of ferry services across Scotland are facing severe disruptions as strong winds and heavy rains hit the region, affecting 20 of CalMac’s 30 routes this morning. Travelers are urged to check for updates immediately as the situation develops.
The disruptions impact vital services to South Uist and Barra, with cancellations also reported on routes to Arran, Bute, Cowal, Dunoon, Cumbrae, Gigha, Harris, Islay, Kilcreggan, Lewis, and North Uist. CalMac has warned customers on six additional routes that services are “liable to disruption or cancellation at short notice.”
This weather chaos coincides with a yellow weather warning issued by the Met Office for rain across the Central Belt, Borders, Dumfries and Galloway, and Argyll and Bute. Some areas could see rainfall totals reach 60mm by the end of the day, with warnings of “moderate to rough” seas off the west coast and across the Hebrides.
Conditions are expected to worsen, with a north-easterly gale force eight warning in effect, bringing wind speeds of approximately 42 mph and maximum wave heights of around 7.5 metres. The Met Office has cautioned that some regions may experience a “month’s worth of rain in just 24 hours,” leading to potential flooding and significant travel disruptions.
Authorities are warning that flooding could impact homes and businesses, with bus and train services likely to be affected. Journey times may also increase substantially due to the extreme weather conditions. The warning remains in place until 7 PM today.
Travelers are strongly advised to stay updated on their ferry services and to consider alternative arrangements if necessary. As the storm continues to batter the region, the situation is evolving rapidly, and further updates are expected from CalMac and weather authorities.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops, and ensure you are prepared for any travel disruptions in the coming hours.
