Gale force winds are causing major disruption to roads, railways and ferries across parts of the country.
Gusts of up to 60mph are expected across the Inner and Outer Hebrides and western parts of the Highlands today with a yellow weather warning in place from 10am until 7pm.
The Met Office said strong southwesterly winds could reach up to 70mph in exposed coastal areas and on hilltops and are likely to cause travel disruption to roads, trains and ferries.
Scotrail has introduced speed restrictions on the West Highland Line between Fort William and Mallaig throughout the day and into Thursday at 10am and the CalMac ferry network is experiencing adverse weather disruption with multiple routes being cancelled.
Thirteen routes have been cancelled so far including Troon to Brodick, Oban to Castlebay, Uig to Lochmaddy and Mallaig to Armadale.
Delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges are also likely.
The Met Office has advised travellers to check bus and train timetables and road conditions before driving and to amend travel plans to avoid delays.
It said: “Strong south to southwesterly winds are expected during Wednesday. Gusts of 50 to 60 mph are expected widely, with some exposed coastal and hilly locations seeing gusts of around 70 mph late morning and early afternoon. Winds ease from the west through the late afternoon and early evening.
“Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.”