The island is preparing to batten down the hatches ahead of the approach of ex-Hurricane Ophelia today (Monday).

Ferry sailings have been cancelled and many flights out of and into Ronaldsway after 3pm have been affected. Police have warned motorists not to travel unless necessary.

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for severe gales and coastal overtopping.

It said severe gales, possibly storm force, would see winds gusting 60-70mph by the evening, and possibly 70-80mph in places.

Very large waves will break onto some coasts and promenades after dark, causing dangerous conditions for a while with localised flooding and debris.

Sergeant Alan Shimmin said: ’There clearly may be a risk of travel disruption.

’The simple message is, don’t go out if you don’t need to and drive to the conditions of the road. This is a timely reminder to check your vehicle and ensure all the lights are functioning.

’It can be tempting to view large waves breaking over exposed coastlines. If you are planning on doing that please ensure you are doing so at a safe distance.

’Please ensure any loose items such as garden furniture or trampolines are secured.’

Isle of Man Airport has advised that all flights with Flybe and Aer Lingus that either arrive or depart the island after 3pm have been affected.

’All passengers should contact their respective airlines if not already advised directly. British Airways BA3285 12.55 and BA3286 16.05 have also been affected,’ it posted on Facebook.

Easyjet are at this time running to schedule for all their flights.

Manannan sailings between Douglas and Liverpool this afternoon have been cancelled and the morning Ben sailing to Heysham, which had been pushed forward from 8.45am to 7am, has now also been cancelled as has the 12.30pm return sailing.

This evening’s Ben sailing to Heysham and the 2.15am return on Tuesday have been cancelled too.A red weather warning has been issued across eight counties in Ireland which are forecast to be directly in the path of Ophelia, by then reduced to a post-tropical cyclone.