Weather warning issued for Orkney

A severe weather warning has been issued for Orkney and the surrounding area.

According to the Met Office, a vigorous depression is expected to run rapidly east passing northern Scotland on Thursday night and Friday morning.

Winds will begin to increase late on Thursday to give a period of very strong westerly winds across the Western Isles, the north and north-west of the Scottish mainland and Orkney.

Gusts of 80 to 90 mph are likely, with a risk of gusts of over 100 mph in places. Winds should quickly ease from the west during the day.

The Met Office further added that the public should be prepared for the potential for disruption to transport as well as power supplies and the possibility of structural damage. Very large waves may also lead to dangerous conditions along some coasts.