A FLOOD ALERT has been issued by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).

This alert is for coastal flooding. On Monday evening tide levels will be increased by a surge, which will be combined with large waves around the time of high tide. At Largs this will be around 9pm local time. Overtopping of large waves and localised flooding to low-lying areas could occur along any exposed part of the coast around this period on Monday evening. Flood warnings will be issued as required.

The Met Office has upgraded a weather warning for WIND to AMBER for parts of Ayrshire as ex-hurricane Ophelia arrives in the UK.

The AMBER alert is valid until 11pm this evening as Ophelia tracks along the west coast of the UK and expected to impact on Ayrshire through this evening.

A spell of very windy weather is expected today in association with ex-Ophelia. Longer journey times and cancellations are likely, as road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected as well as some bridge closures. There is a good chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage.

Flying debris is likely, such as tiles blown from roofs, as well as large waves around coastal districts with beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties. This leads to the potential for injuries and danger to life.

A SEPA spokesman stated: "Remain vigilant and remember, it is your responsibility to take actions which help protect yourself and your property. Advice and information is also available through Floodline on 0345 9881188. This FLOOD ALERT is now in force until further notice and was sent by phone and sms free of charge to registered customers of our Floodline direct warning service.

"If you haven't already signed up to receive free flood messages, please call Floodline or register online at sepa.org.uk/floodingsignup.

Our advice to the public is simple - please stay away from exposed coastal areas during times of severe weather."