The Met Office has issued a rare red weather warning for high winds due to hit Dundee and Fife today amid Storm Arwen.
The most eastern parts of Scotland are covered by the red alert, including parts of Angus, Dundee and Fife.
Experts at the Met Office have said the high winds will bring disruption and pose a risk, especially in those areas covered by the amber and red weather alerts.
Winds in those areas covered by the red warning could be capable of damaging buildings, with “roofs blown off and power lines brought down”.
The warning could have an impact on planned events, including the first day of Dundee Winterfest at Slessor Gardens.
It’s understood the Christmas festival’s organisers are holding a health and safety meeting at around 3pm to assess the situation.
Loganair have cancelled all flights to and from Dundee Airport for the rest of the day on Friday as a result of the warning.
What is a red weather warning?
Red warnings are the Met Office’s most severe alert, and they are issued only rarely when it is thought the weather will cause the greatest disruption.
This is the first time such a warning has been issued since February 2018.
It is in place from 3pm today until 2am on Saturday morning.
The Met Office are warning that roads, bridges and railway lines could close, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights expected in the affected areas.
Large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and homes could also pose a risk to life.
The Met Office says: “Red means you should take action now to keep yourself and others safe from the impact of the weather.
“Widespread damage, travel and power disruption and risk to life is likely.
“You must avoid dangerous areas and follow the advice of the emergency services and local authorities.”
Winds of up to 75mph expected
Coastal areas are expected to see the worst of the weather, with Carnoustie expected to see winds of up to 70mph on Friday evening.
Similar gusts are forecast in Anstruther and Leuchars in Fife.
Met Office spokesman Stephen Dixon said: “The worst-affected areas will predominantly be on the coasts, with gusts of over 75mph bringing possible disruption to travel and longer journey times, power cuts, flying debris and large waves, with beach material being thrown around.”
Scottish Government transport minister Graeme Dey has warned of potential transport disruption as he advised people to check the latest information before they set off.
Travel disruption in Dundee and Fife
Traffic restrictions have already been put in place, including on the Tay Bridge and the Queensferry Crossing.
Both will close to all vehicles except single-decker buses and cars later this evening, while a speed restriction of 30mph is currently in force on the Tay Bridge.
The Queensferry Crossing will close to double-decker buses at 6pm and then all high-sided vehicles, caravans and motorcycles at 7pm until midnight.
More to follow.
Storm Arwen: Tayside and Fife brace for ‘danger to life’ 75mph winds
