By Isla Storie

Copyright dailyrecord

Travel advice has been issued as Storm Amy is set to sweep across Scotland, bringing widespread disruption. A Met Office amber warning for wind is in place for the west and north-west of the country from 5pm on Friday, October 3 to 9am on Saturday, October 4. Additional yellow warnings for wind and rain are also in place for most of Scotland on Friday . During this period, wind gusts of 60-70 mph are expected, and may exceed 95 mph in more exposed areas. This is likely to cause travel and power disruption, as well as possible damage to buildings. The very strong winds will also be accompanied by spells of heavy rain, with difficult driving conditions likely, especially for high-sided vehicles on prone routes. Winds will ease for most parts through Saturday afternoon but will continue to be very strong for the Northern Isles and parts of the far north of Scotland through to the end of Saturday, before slowly easing overnight. Police Scotland has issued guidance on driving in the expected conditions, as well as general travel advice during periods of adverse weather. Motorists have been advised to only travel if necessary, and take extreme caution if they need to – as well as to plan ahead and ensure they have sufficient fuel, food, water, and a charged mobile phone in case of delays. Chief Superintendent Scott McCarren, Head of Road Policing , said: “I would encourage people to drive to the conditions and be aware of increased stopping distances. “In wet weather, stopping distances will be at least double those required for stopping on dry roads. “Drivers of vehicles vulnerable to being blown over should plan their route to avoid exposed areas or consider cancelling your journey until conditions improve.” The Met Office has warned of potential closures of roads, bridges and railway lines leading to cancellations of buses and trains, as well as flights and ferry services . ScotRail has already advised passengers to check their journeys before travelling, and confirmed that some of its lines would close at 6pm on Friday due to the forecast wind and rain. These are: No trains will run on these routes, and no replacement transport will be available. Passengers who need to travel are encouraged to do so earlier in the day on Friday, or on Thursday evening. On all other routes, speed restrictions will be introduced from 7pm until the end of service, to ensure the safety of passengers and staff . This may extend journey times and result in some service alterations. Mark Ilderton, ScotRail Service Delivery Director, said: “Safety is always our top priority, and we’re working closely with our colleagues at Network Rail to keep people moving where it’s safe to do so. “The Met Office Amber warning for high winds during Storm Amy means that some routes will have to close, and speed restrictions will be in place across Scotland’s Railway. “We know how frustrating disruption can be, but these measures are essential to protect our customers and staff. “We’d encourage everyone to check their journey before travelling and to keep an eye on our website, app, or social media channels for the latest updates. “If you have a ticket for travel on Friday, you can use it today (Thursday), Saturday, or Sunday.”