Communities across the north and north-east are being braced for a weekend of gale-force winds as warnings are extended by a further 24 hours.
The Met Office has expanded weather warnings for strong gusts covering mainland Scotland and the islands.
Forecasters had predicted strong winds across parts of the Highlands and Islands, Moray and Aberdeenshire between 7am and 9pm on Saturday.
Now, weekend weather warnings have been extended by a further 24 hours.
Gusts of up to 70mph are expected in coastal areas on Saturday.
Meanwhile, winds reaching 50-60mph could develop across the Highlands and Moray Firth, including Inverness, Elgin and Fraserburgh.
The Met Office added: “Strong westerly winds are expected to develop through the course of Saturday, with gusts of 50-60 mph developing quite widely across this region, and a small chance of gusts reaching 70 mph around some coasts and high ground areas.”
57mph winds expected in Moray this weekend
On Sunday, some communities will see some hail and thunder accompanying the strong gusts.
Gusts of up to 57mph are expected in Elgin on Sunday, with Inverness also expected to see similar conditions.
The alerts warn commuters of delays and cancellations to road, rail, air and ferry transport.
Coastal communities are also being warned of “dangerous” conditions and the potential for coastal flooding.
Christmas travel could be impacted by gale-force winds
The Met Office said: “Strong and gusty northwesterly winds are expected to develop on Sunday. Gusts of 50-60 mph are expected quite widely, and around some exposed coasts and hills of gusts 70 mph are possible, especially in the north and west. In addition, squally showers are likely with some hail and thunder possible in places.
“This has the potential to cause delays to public transport and some disruption to the road network, which may have a greater than usual impact given the busier pre-Christmas weekend travel.er than usual impact given the busier pre-Christmas weekend travel.”
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