Storm Barbara battering Britain on busiest day of Christmas

WINDS of up to 120mph are lashing the western islands of Scotland as Storm Barbara makes its way across the UK. Power outages have been reported as millions of people face delays in the busiest day of the season for shoppers and travelers alike.

Although the bulk of the damage will be inflicted on the Highlands and Islands, travel disruption and power failures are being anticipated throughout Britain. 

Amber wind warnings and flood alerts are in place across Scotland as of Friday afternoon December 23, and will remain in effect until at least Christmas Eve. 

Brent Walker,deputy chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “Storm Barbara is crossing the Atlantic and will pass close to the north-west of the UK during Friday, bringing the potential for some disruption to power supplies and travel, and possibly structural damage.”

The wild weather is unlikely to relent anytime soon. Amber warnings are already in place for Boxing Day when Storm Conor is expected to strike the Caithness coast with winds of 80-90mph. 

Local authorities across the country are advising travelers to be extremely vigilant and to keep a close eye on the latest weather updates.