URGENT UPDATE: As gale force winds and heavy rain batter Scotland, CalMac has confirmed that 20 out of 30 ferry routes are currently disrupted. The ferry operator announced this morning that services to South Uist and Barra have been cancelled, with additional disruptions impacting routes to Arran, Bute, Cowal, and Dunoon among others.
Developing reports reveal that disruptions are affecting twelve other ferry routes, including Cumbrae, Gigha, Harris, Islay, Kilcreggan, Lewis, and North Uist. Customers are advised that services on six additional routes are “liable to disruption or cancellation at short notice.”
This severe weather warning follows a yellow weather alert issued by the Met Office, predicting up to 60mm of rain across the Central Belt, Borders, Dumfries and Galloway, and Argyll and Bute. The forecast indicates “moderate or rough” seas off the west coast and throughout the Hebrides, with maximum wave heights reaching approximately 7.5 metres.
The Met Office has also warned that some areas could experience a “month’s worth of rain in just 24 hours.” With persistent and heavy rain expected, there is a significant risk of flooding affecting homes and businesses. Public transport, including bus and train services, is likely to face further disruptions, impacting journey times for many travelers.
The weather warning remains in effect until 7 PM today, and authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential flooding and travel delays.
As this situation develops, CalMac continues to update customers on service changes. Stay tuned for further updates as Scotland braces for this powerful storm.
