Here is the weather forecast, so hold onto your hat . . .

Expect worsening storms, heavy downpours, flooding and coastal erosion.

That was the grim outlook contained in a recent report from Climate Action Clyde (CAC') on the likely effect of climate change on the area over the next 50 years.

As the Advertiser reported earlier this month, the CAC warned that the Erskine Bridge might need costly barriers to prevent storm damage.

What's more, erosion of the railway line on the north side of the Clyde was a possibility and Vale of Leven Hospital would be at risk of river flooding.

CRC warned that failing to adapt and prepare for climate change could cost the Glasgow region several hundred million pounds a year by the 2050s.

But, you say, that's all in the future and there's no need to worry just yet. Well, think again, because signs of climate change are already apparent.

Scientists have studied UK growing seasons dating back over 200 years and have found that the season has increased on average by more than a day a year over the last 20 years.

They say further changes in rainfall and temperature will affect many animal and plant species around the UK.

Some species might be unable to adapt quickly enough and habitats might not be available for them to move into.

Two species of bird which are occurring with increasing regularity in Helensburgh and Lomond may be indicators of a warming climate.

One is the nuthatch, a woodland species, which seems to be extending its range northwards from its usual stronghold in southern Scotland and England.

The other is the little egret, a graceful white heron normally associated with warmer climates, that is now a regular visitor to the Clyde area.

Meanwhile, the RSPB has compiled a list of the climate change indicators:

Flowers such as snowdrops are blooming earlier in the spring and oaks are leafing earlier.

Butterflies are appearing on the wing earlier.

Migrating birds may have to change their migration routes or the places where they breed or spend winter.

Wetland birds such as redshank - a common species on the Clyde, although in reduced numbers - will find their habitats threatened by climate change.

Saltmarshes will become inundated by the sea while moors and wet grasslands will dry up during hot summers.

Food shortages are already causing young seabirds to starve to death resulting in dramatic population declines.

Birds may be forced to nest at different times in response to changing availability of the food they depend on to feed to their young.

The RSPB adds: "We could lose species that currently live in our most mountainous and northerly habitats.

"For example, the Scottish crossbill, the UK’s only endemic species of bird, faces the risk of extinction."