#Scotfail: Scotrail Closes Lines As High Winds Batter Scotland

#Scotfail: Commuters Moan About Cancelled Trains Amid 'Wee Gusts'

Furious commuters have vented their anger at Scotland's rail network, which has been suspended due to severe winds battering the country.

Network Rail said that debris on the lines and damage to equipment meant it was not safe to operate any services. Trains are being halted at their nearest stations and passengers are being advised to disembark.

It added all sorts of items had been blown on to tracks - including a trampoline.

An overturned lorry on the M6 by Junction 40 as strong winds batter the UK

"We've had a trampoline on the line, items of garden furniture, trees and other debris," a spokesman said.

"It's quite extensive."

But commuters called the wind "wee gusts" and have begun using the hashtag #scotfail.

Company spokesman Nick King said: "The weather conditions are such that we are having to bring the network to a standstill at the moment.

"There's too much debris and too much damage to equipment to continue. We cannot continue to run trains with the levels of wind we are seeing."

The rail company tweeted numerous pictures to commuters, of the debris on the lines.

Gale-force winds have battered the country leaving around 20,000 homes without power.

In the Highlands, gusts of 93mph have been recorded at Altnaharra, rising to 106mph at Glen Ogle and 114mph on the slopes of Aonach Mor near Fort William.

Transport Scotland has escalated its travel warning to stage four red, advising people to avoid travelling.

It said conditions are "extremely dangerous" on the roads and motorists will experience severe disruption and delays.

A tree lands on a car in Davidsons Mains, Edinburgh after Scotland was hit by strong winds.

Winds have reached 59mph in Edinburgh and 63mph in Glasgow this morning.

Network Rail said Glasgow Central station was being evacuated due to debris smashing glass in the roof. No one has been hurt and arriving passengers are being escorted from the station.

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