Tropical cyclone Yasi has roared ashore in Queensland, with winds well in excess of 200 km/h (125 mph). The impact is as yet unknown, but as day breaks, this should become clearer.
Events in Egypt have taken a turn for the worse, with clashes between supporters and opponents of president Mubarak. Although the president pledged not to stand in the elections later in the year, this has not served to placate his opponents, and quite ugly scenes ensued in the square which has been the focal point of the popular uprising over the past week or so.
Here in the Hebrides, we can expect a fully-fledged storm, with winds up to force 12 in the next 24 to 48 hours. Gusts are anticipated to be in the range of 80 to 90 mph. Nowhere near as bad as in Queensland, but sufficient to cause damage. We'll be battening down the hatches.
