SCHOOLS across Scotland will close early today as winds of up to 90mph batter the country, leaving parents to make alternative childcare arrangements for the second time in eight days.

With predictions of widespread damage, difficult driving conditions and the threat of fallen trees and other flying debris during the severe weather, some councils took the precaution of announcing that pupils will be sent home at lunchtime.

Last week many parents had to find babysitters or take time off work after 2700 council-run schools shut during a day of public sector strikes.

Transport Minister Keith Brown admitted the winds would be "a major challenge for our transport system, commuters and the public".

Renfrewshire Council was among the first to act, announcing all schools will close at 1pm for "safety reasons" after the red alert warnings were issued by the Met Office.

All special schools, including Hollybush Pre-five Centre, will be closed all day.

Councillor Lorraine Cameron, Convener of Education Policy Board, said: "The safety of our pupils is our chief concern.

"We realise this decision will cause parents some inconvenience but in these circumstances we have no other choice."

In East Renfrewshire, St Luke's High School in Barrhead tweeted that, on current advice, it would remain open. Stirling Council said all schools and nurseries would be closed from 12.30pm, with Balfron High School shut all day.

Scottish Borders Council will shut all 65 primary and nine secondary schools early to ensure pupils are home before the storm reaches its peaks.

The local authority gave parents early warning of closures through group call messages at tea-time.

Mr Brown, who was yesterday taking part in a meeting of the Scottish Government Resilience Room, assured the public that "a lot of work is already underway to ensure Scotland is prepared for any likely transport disruption caused by severe winds."

He added: "As well as possible bridge closures we need to prepare for blown over vehicles and trees."

He said commuters were "advised if they can leave work earlier or work from home that would be a sensible step to help avoid possible rush-hour delays."

He added: "We are all working hard to keep Scotland moving and I urge everyone to allow extra time for travel, avoid unnecessary risks and keep checking websites and local radio for real-time information".

Transport Scotland, which has warned major road bridges could end up being closed, say one of the main threats is debris being blown on to the railways . Speed restrictions after the morning rush hour will impact on timetables.

Landscaping and cutting crews will be available to deal with the aftermath of the high winds and resources are in place to quickly undertake structural inspections if required.

ScotRail's plans include alternative transport arrangements. Steve Montgomery, managing director, said: "We will constantly review weather forecasts and respond accordingly. Our aim is to ensure as robust a service as possible.

Edinburgh Airport warned there may be some disruption.

ScottishPower has helicopters on standby to inspect any damage to lines and has drafted in additional teams of engineers. Workers in England were put on standby to travel north.

"We have cancelled all planned work on the network tomorrow and have opened our emergency action centres in preparation for the storm," a spokesman added.

Caledonian MacBrayne said it would be monitoring the forecast before cancelling ferries.

A spokesman added: "As providers of lifeline ferry services we are always reluctant to cancel sailings, but of course the safety of our passengers, crews and vessels is of paramount importance."

Assistant Chief Constable Allan Moffat of the Association of Chief Police Officers (Scotland) urged motorists to drive with caution and plan ahead.