View across the Outer Harbour of Stornoway

Saturday 21 January 2012

Saturday 21 January

Tropical cyclone Ethel has passed the island of Rodrigues in the Indian Ocean. I am not under the impression that it has caused major problems; the Mauritian news media merely state that the cyclone warning has been lifted, after winds of 80 mph occurred.

Tropical cyclone Funso is starting to move away from Mozambique, although high winds are probably still affecting the area around Quetimane. The storm will intensify to 115 knots, but once away from the Mozambique coast is not posing any further threat to land. Its effects have not yet filtered through to the newsfeeds.

Today was a decidedly cold day, with a westerly gale and occasional wintry showers. The ferry sailed to Ullapool first thing this morning, but has remained stormbound there for the rest of the day. She is expected back here tomorrow afternoon.