A large-scale search operation is underway off the Western Isles for a fishing vessel carrying three crew members that has gone missing.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) received notification at approximately 21:20 on Tuesday that the boat had failed to return as expected from Lewis.
Search and rescue response
Multiple agencies have been mobilised to locate the vessel. The MCA has deployed a fixed-wing aircraft and two helicopters to conduct aerial searches of the area. On the water, six coastguard rescue teams, two RNLI lifeboats and a local vessel are participating in the operation. Police Scotland has also been engaged in the response effort.
Weather complications
The search is taking place amid forecasts of severe weather conditions affecting the region. A weather system carrying the remnants of Hurricane Isaias is expected to bring gales, heavy rain and unusually warm air to parts of the United Kingdom.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for sections of the Highlands and Western Isles, with wind gusts predicted to reach 70mph (113km/h) in some locations. These deteriorating conditions add urgency to the search operation and present additional challenges for rescue teams working in the area.
