Gale force winds with gust up to 80mph and rainfall of between 4 to 6cms were being predicted to hit the Island's higher grounds overnight and the decision was been taken, in advance, to close the Mountain Road from 6am to 2pm (Tuesday 26th January).

This morning's sailing of the Ben-my-Chree was cancelled.

The heavy rain is expected to start about 3am with the strong winds expected to peak at 9am. Other roads could also be affected and motorists are being warned to be on the look out for standing water and debris.

The early afternoon's high tides may causes problems to coastal areas and these roads are to close from 10.30am:

· Douglas Promenade, from Greensills Corner to Port Jack

· Bay-ny-Carrickey/Shore Road, Rushen

· Douglas Street, Castletown

· Castletown Promenade

· Fenella Beach/Castle Causeway, Peel

· Laxey Promenade, from Shore Road to Tent Road

· Ramsey Promenade

Whilst conditions are expected to abate during the early afternoon, motorists are asked to abide by road closures and traffic diversions.

There is a possibility of minor flooding in the lowest lying inner harbour areas, is Castletown, Ramsey and The Tongue, Douglas.

Local residents are encouraged to keep up to date with the latest flood predictions at https://www.gov.im/transport/floodwatch/.   You can obtain sandbags from all the Island’s fire stations (Quarterbridge car park in Douglas rather than Douglas fire station) and civic amenity sites. Sandbags will also be available at the coach park in Laxey.

Any incidents of standing water on the highways should be reported to the Department of Infrastructure on 850000, while people should call 999 in the event of a life-threatening emergency. Flood advice is available from Manx Utilities on 687687. Operational updates are provided via Twitter. Follow @TweetbeatIOM @iomfire @iominfra @iombusandrail and @manx_utilities.