BORDERS residents are being warned to plan ahead as Storm Isha poses risk of 80 mph gusts this weekend.

The amber warning comes into effect on Sunday evening (January 21) at 6pm, with exceptionally strong winds forecast until 9am on Monday (January 22).

The warning covers the whole of the Borders, and includes a yellow warning for wind will be in place from 12pm on Sunday to 12pm on Monday.

The weather - a result of Storm Isha - could see gusts of up to 60 mph across Sunday evening, with exposed and coastal areas at risk of seeing winds reach speeds of 80 mph.

A Scottish Borders Council (SBC) spokesperson said: "A multi-agency emergency response group will be stood up throughout the amber warning period to manage any Council and partner responses as required.

"Additional Council resources and contractors will be in place and on standby to assist, for example clearing fallen trees, however only where this does not put staff at risk.

"The Met Office is advising residents to prepare by ensuring any loose items in gardens are secured, for example trampolines and garden furniture.

"The are also encouraging people to stay indoors as much as possible during the warning period."

The inclement weather - which also includes a yellow rain warning from 3pm-midnight on Sunday covering Hawick, the Ettrick Valley, and Newcastleton - could see transport delays or cancellations, power cuts, and flooding across the region.

Updates will be provided by SBC through the free emergency messaging service SB Alert (sign up at www.sbalert.co.uk) and the council website: www.scotborders.gov.uk/severeweather