Severe weather warnings for strong winds are in force across Scotland as the Met Office confirmed that gusts of up to 75mph could hits parts of the country.

A yellow 'be aware' warning for strong winds is in place in Orkney & Shetland, the Highlands & Western Isles, Grampian, Strathclyde, Central, Tayside & Fife, and Dumfries, Galloway, Lothian & the Borders.

Winds of up to 60mph are expected across most of the country, with stronger gusts of 75mph predicted across the Hebrides, Sutherland, Caithness and Orkney.

The weather warning is in place until 1pm today.

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The Met Office said: "Gales and locally severe gales are expected to develop across much of Scotland and the far north of England for a time on Thursday.

"Gusts of 50-60mph are likely in many areas, whilst the strongest winds, with gusts of around 75mph, are possible across the Hebrides, Sutherland, Caithness and Orkney during the first part of the morning.

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"Please be aware that potential impacts could include minor travel disruptions with some bridge restrictions, and possible damage to trees and structures. Additionally, large waves will build off northern and western coasts of Scotland with the risk of some wave overtopping here."