THE Met Office have increased the impact level of Storm Ali to 'high' in an update this morning (Wednesday).

Although the morning started off well, the storm is now tracking into western Scotland and the Scottish Borders will start to see the wind impacts from 10am onwards.

In addition to raising the impact level, the forecaster has also increased the warning time by an hour until 6pm this evening, and extended the amber warning area to parts of the north east in England and northern Scotland.

The whole of the Scottish Borders is included in the warning area.

According to the Met Office, impacts expected from Storm Ali will range from the following:

  • Flying debris is likely and could lead to Injuries or danger to life
  • Some damage to buildings is likely, such as tiles blown from roofs or damage through falling trees and branches breaking
  • Longer journey times and cancellations likely, as road, rail, air and ferry services affected with some roads and bridges closed
  • Power cuts with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
  • Injuries and danger to life from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties

To keep up to date with the latest forecasts, visit: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/warnings