EAST Lothian residents should not drive "under any circumstances" during the period of a red weather warning for extremely strong winds in the county this afternoon and evening.

The Met Office has issued its most serious red 'take action' warning covering the period between 3pm today and 2am tomorrow (Saturday), as it warns of a potential danger to life due to the extremely strong winds being brought to the county by Storm Arwen.

READ MORE: Met Office warns of danger to life in East Lothian after issuing its most serious red warning

Now, a senior police officer has told residents to stay off the roads and remain at home to stay safe.

Superintendent Simon Bradshaw, from Police Scotland’s road policing unit, said: “The high winds being experienced along the coastal areas of the north, east and southern parts of Scotland have led to red weather warnings coming into effect and, as such, any motorist within these affected regions should not travel under any circumstances.

“If you are currently within more in-land areas of these regions, then amber and yellow warnings are also in place and we are asking that you do not journey out unless for essential purposes and if you are doing so, to be mindful of the challenging conditions you will face.

“A number of local road closures and bridge restrictions may also be implemented during this period of adverse weather and we would advise the public to consult the Transport Scotland and Met Office websites for continuous and updated information."

BEAR Scotland has already said it may close the A1 in East Lothian if winds are as strong as predicted.

READ MORE: A1 in East Lothian could close in its entirety this afternoon due to extremely strong winds

Minister for Transport Graeme Dey MSP said: “There is significant potential for disruption on the roads, especially on bridges, and people should check the latest information before making any decision to travel. They should also follow Police Scotland warnings to avoid travel in those areas impacted by the red warning.

“The conditions are also likely to lead to disruption on other modes of transport, so we are urging people to take the weather into account if they are planning to travel on trains, ferries and flights.”