The Highlands and islands were on storm alert last night with gale force winds and unusually high waves forecast.
Severe weather warnings have been issued by the Met Office for the next 48 hours and ferry companies warned there could be serious disruption.
A yellow Be Aware warning was issued from 9pm tonight until 6am on Thursday.
A batten down the hatches warning was issued by police and the public was advised to make sure that loose items such as children’s trampolines were secured.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency also issued amber flood alerts across all coastal areas in the Highlands where “very high waves and a surge” are expected during the storms.
The Western Isles Emergency Planning Coordinating Group met yesterday and were issuing the Met Office warnings and discussing plans for the severe weather alert.
Police and partner agencies are also reminding the public to be vigilant during the period of high winds and localised flooding.
Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne warned passengers to expect cancellations to its services.
A CalMac spokesman said: “Strong gales and gusts of up to 80mph will likely bring disruption to the ferry network between now and Thursday.
“Forecast high winds and storm conditions will impact on the normal scheduled sailings so anyone thinking of travelling in the next few days should check the website at www.calmac.co.uk for the latest timetable news or call the customer helpline on 0800 066 5000.”
A police spokesman said: “The winds are believed to be strong enough that there could be some structural damage associated with them, and they will also be accompanied by high seas which have the potential to cause wave overtopping.
“There are warnings of localised flooding in the area along with surface waters on roads. The public is also advised of the potential for causeways to close for indeterminate periods and to check partner agency websites and listen to radio reports for further updates. There is also the strong possibility of disruption to public transport.
“The police would also like to remind the public to secure any outside items such as garden furniture and play equipment, for example trampolines.”