Storm Caroline - Yellow warning for wind issued across Ayrshire

06:00 on Thursday until 18:00 on Thursday

Storm Caroline is expected to bring a spell of very windy weather to much of Scotland and parts of the north of Northern Ireland on Thursday.

Gusts of 60-70 mph are expected quite widely, with gusts to 80 mph possible over high ground and around exposed coasts.

Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible. Some short term loss of power and other services is possible. It is likely that some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities will be affected by spray and/or large waves.Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible. Some short term loss of power and other services is possible. It is likely that some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities will be affected by spray and/or large waves.

Chief Forecaster's assessment

The strongest winds will reach the west early on Thursday, extending east through the morning. Winds will start to ease in the west later in the morning and then all parts by late afternoon/evening.

Snow showers will turn increasingly frequent and heavy across large parts Scotland and Northern Ireland during the evening.