A torchlight procession started off the Hogmanay celebrations

Three years ago the party was cancelled when strong winds hit the celebrations. This year, about 100,000 revellers are expected into the city centre.

Planners insist lessons have been learned with more robust stage equipment and all-weather fireworks.

Pete Irvine, director of event organiser Unique Events, said the party would go ahead.

"I don't think that we would anticipate anything other than going ahead with everything," he said.

He added that people should come dressed for the weather.

Public safety

Despite his confidence, organisers earlier stressed that the key to going ahead is public safety.

Officials will continue to meet during the weekend to assess the viability of the party.

The Hogmanay celebrations form part of Edinburgh's Winter Festival which includes a number of events throughout the weekend.

On Friday night, a torchlight procession will take place through the city behind a Viking longship.

It will finish on Calton Hill where the ship will be burned.