Amber weather warning issued as strong winds and coastal conditions expected overnight

Ferry sailings cancelled as gusts of up to 80mph forecast, with risk of coastal overtopping in exposed areas

An amber weather warning has been issued for the Isle of Man, replacing an earlier yellow alert, as forecasters warn of strong winds and hazardous coastal conditions later today and overnight.

The warning is in place from 6pm today until 3am tomorrow.

Ronaldsway Met Office says south to south-westerly winds this evening and early tonight are expected to bring widespread gusts of between 60 and 70mph, with a risk of reaching up to 80mph in some areas.

The conditions could result in trees and branches being brought down, along with a small risk of structural damage to buildings.

Winds are expected to ease towards midnight and into the early hours.

At high tide, around 2am, forecasters say winds will be decreasing, but large tides and significant waves are likely to lead to overtopping in exposed coastal locations.

This includes parts of the south of the Island and some promenades, such as the northern end of Douglas Promenade, where debris is expected to be left.

While widespread harbour or quayside flooding is not anticipated, some of the most susceptible areas could see minor surface water for a time, including locations near the River Sulby in Ramsey.

Castletown’s flood defences are expected to be deployed as a precaution.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has cancelled all sailings this afternoon and overnight due to the forecast conditions.