TT campers warned as gale force winds forecasted
BBCA warning has been issued to TT campers on the Isle of Man to secure tents and equipment after a forecast of gale force winds.
A yellow weather warning has been issued by Ronaldsway Met Office for stormy weather between 21:00 BST until 04:00 BST on Tuesday.
Thousands of motorcycling fans have travelled for the famous races and many are staying at campsites across the island.
The Isle of Man government has urged people to "stay safe" and be prepared by also securing awnings, bikes and personal belongings.
Residents have been encouraged to ensure garden furniture and bins are fastened securely.
A government spokesman said it was working with campsite providers and commissioners on "severe weather contingency plans" for campers who may need alternative, temporary accommodation.
Support is also set to be provided by Isle of Man Civil Defence volunteers overnight.
Due to the incoming gales, the A18 Mountain Road has been closed to traffic at Ramsey, with the road closed from the Hairpin to the Creg-ny-Baa from 19:00 until the end of racing on Tuesday.
That was to ensure race organisers could get racing underway with minimal disruption and "in the interests of public safety", the spokesman said.
Clerk of the course for the TT Gary Thompson previously confirmed a contingency session on Monday evening would not be used because of the incoming weather.
Forecasters are expecting winds to increase to 50mph (80km/h), with isolated gusts of 55mph (88km/h).
The strongest winds are set arrive about midnight, with a significant decrease after 03:00. A two-hour period of heavy rain is also expected.
The Met Office's Colin Gartshore said while "not unprecedented", winds of this strength were "unusual for this time of year" and some damage and disruption was possible to tents and marquees.
The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company also confirmed various ferry sailings have been brought forward ahead of the gales.
For those travelling and affected by disruptions to overnight sailings, the Sea Terminal building in Douglas will be available.
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