23rd October 2026
Caithness residents are being advised to keep an eye on the weather forecast as unsettled conditions bring rain and strong winds across northern Scotland on Friday and Saturday, 23 and 24 October.
The Met Office is forecasting a spell of wet weather associated with Storm Austen, followed by further unsettled conditions over the weekend. While the storm's strongest winds are expected further south, northern Scotland could still experience blustery conditions, particularly on Saturday.
Friday is expected to bring cloudy skies and periods of rain, with temperatures around 8–9°C. Saturday could be more unsettled, with persistent rain developing during the afternoon and strong winds adding to the unpleasant conditions.
Motorists should allow extra time for journeys, particularly on exposed roads, where gusts and surface water can make driving more difficult. People travelling by ferry should check for possible service changes, while those living in exposed areas may wish to secure garden furniture, bins and other loose items before the winds strengthen.
Heavy rain can also create localised flooding, especially where drains are blocked or water collects on roads. SEPA is monitoring the wider Scottish flood situation, with further rain expected during the weekend.
The advice is straightforward: check the latest Met Office forecast and any weather warnings before travelling, and remain alert to changing conditions.
Although the worst of Storm Austen may pass elsewhere, Caithness should not assume that it will escape a wet and windy weekend.
Met Office weather forecast
https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/
SEPA Scottish Flood Forecast
https://scottishfloodforecast.sepa.org.uk/