Travel advice issued ahead of Storm Darragh

Travel and safety advice has been issued following a Met Office Amber weather warning for high winds associated with Storm Darragh on Saturday, 7 December 2024 between 1am and 9pm.

All road users should consider if they really need to travel during the adverse weather or if travel can be delayed until conditions improve.

The areas affected by the Amber warning are:

• Dumfries and Galloway
• South Ayrshire

Please visit the Met Office website for more detailed information about the weather warning. Yellow warnings for wind and rain are also in place for parts of Scotland.

Please also be aware of weather warnings in place for other parts of the UK, including a Red weather warning for high winds across parts of Wales and avoid unnecessary travel to areas affected.

Motorists are advised there is a high risk of disruption in the areas affected by the warning and there may be significant delays. Conditions may be hazardous due to the high winds and extra caution should be exercised.

Travellers with bookings on ferries should check with operators for updates on crossings.

Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, head of Road Policing, said: “Drivers of vehicles vulnerable to being blown over should plan their route to avoid exposed areas, or consider delaying your journey until conditions improve.

“Plan ahead and keep updated by checking the Met Office and Traffic Scotland websites and social media.”

The Ready Scotland website has useful information about adverse weather, including how to secure your home from the danger of storms.

Advice for road users:

• If you are travelling on the roads, prepare yourself and your vehicle for the conditions
• Ensure your mobile phone is charged and plan your journey, including an alternative route
• Have sufficient fuel, warm clothing, food and water in case you’re delayed
• Do not ignore road closure signs – they are for your safety
• Do not put yourself in danger trying to clear roads of debris
• Congestion caused by vehicles may restrict emergency services and recovery vehicles from providing essential assistance
• Listen to media broadcasts, including radio, for updates Traffic Scotland radio player | Traffic Scotland or visit Traffic Scotland | Trunk road traffic updates & route planner
• Follow your local authority for the latest updates in your area via Facebook, X or their website
• Other information can be found on the Met Office, Ready Scot. For public transport information visit www.travelinescotland.
• Follow @policescotland and @trafficscotland on X for up-to-date travel information.

Wind

• HGV and bus drivers should drive with extreme caution and be aware you may be asked to park at a suitable position by the police.
• Drivers of vehicles vulnerable to being blown over should plan their route to avoid exposed areas or consider cancelling your journey until conditions improve.
• Cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians should consider the risk of being blown over or into the path of other road users.