Force 10 winds expected

AS SCOTLAND is preparing for Storm Abigail with gusts of up to 90mph, it looks as though Shetland is to escape the brunt of the Atlantic depression.

However, force 10 southwesterly winds are forecast for most of Friday and NorthLink has already changed its schedule.

The ferry operator said that Thursday’s northbound ferry Hjaltland would now be leaving Aberdeen at 3pm heading for Kirkwall. The second leg of her journey to Lerwick is likely to be cancelled.

The southbound sailing of the Hrossey is currently under review with the possibility of an earlier departure from Lerwick.

The cargo vessel Helliar’s passage from Aberdeen to Lerwick on Thursday night is also under review.

The Met office’s chief forecaster said: “Southwesterly severe gales will develop later on Thursday, increasing storm force for a time as they veer westerly overnight into early Friday. Gusts of 70 to 80 mph are likely, and perhaps 90 mph across exposed locations.

“Winds will begin to ease and veer more westerly across the Western Isles and the mainland on Friday morning and across the northern isles on Friday afternoon.

“Lightning associated with frequent showers will be an additional hazard, whilst large waves may lead to over-topping along some coasts and causeways.

“The public should be prepared for disruption to transport and perhaps power supplies.”

A detailed hour-by-hour weather forecast can also be found at www.shetnews.co.uk/weather