An amber wind warning has been issued for much of the UK as Storm Darragh, the fourth named storm of the season, approaches. The storm is set to bring gusts up to 80mph, with the potential for power cuts, flying debris, and widespread disruption, including heavy rain and coastal flooding. Be prepared for potential power cuts and flooding, and take necessary precautions.
The amber warning for “potentially damaging” winds will be in effect on Saturday, from 3 am to 9 pm, affecting areas along the west coast of the UK from South Ayrshire in Scotland to Cornwall, as well as parts of Northern Ireland. The Met Office has urged residents to take precautions as these fierce winds could damage buildings, fallen trees, and hazardous travel conditions.
In addition, a yellow warning for wind and rain was issued for Thursday and Friday, covering parts of Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and England. Strong winds and rain are expected to extend into the southeast and northeast of England, with further disruption anticipated as the storm intensifies.
The strong winds could bring down tiles from roofs, damage trees, and lead to widespread power outages. Coastal areas are expected to experience large waves, and travel disruptions are likely, with some roads and bridges potentially closed due to fallen debris. The M48 Severn Bridge in Gloucestershire had already been closed on Thursday night because of gusty weather.
National Highways has issued a severe weather alert for Saturday, warning motorists in the south-west and north-west to prepare for gale-force winds. Key routes likely to be affected include the M5 in northern Somerset, the A30 in Cornwall, and the M6 in Cheshire.
Rainfall is expected to cause further issues. A yellow warning for rain will be in effect across Northern Ireland and Wales from 3 pm on Friday to noon on Saturday. These regions, which saw devastating flooding during Storm Bert last month, could receive up to 60mm of rain, further exacerbating the risk of flooding. Rhondda Cynon Taf, one of the worst-hit areas during Storm Bert, is forecast to experience heavy rain again, prompting the Environment Agency in England to issue over 20 red flood warnings, urging residents and businesses to “act now.”
Simon Partridge, Senior Forecaster at the Met Office, issued a stark warning about the severity of Storm Darragh. He cautioned that the conditions could be ‘hazardous,’ particularly around coastal areas. ‘Unless you need to be out, it’s best to stay indoors, especially if you live in the areas covered by the amber wind warning. Winds of 70mph or more are dangerous, and there is a risk to life,’ he said. ‘We are in for a very blustery spell of weather, and due to the storm’s track, it will affect a large part of the UK.’
Storm Darragh has been propelled towards Britain by low-pressure systems in the jet stream, which is expected to reach up to 240mph, carrying cold air from the northern US and Canada. Named by the Met Office on Thursday morning, Darragh follows Storms Ashley, Bert, and Conall, which have already made this season one of considerable meteorological activity.
The storm arrives after concerns were raised about the lack of sufficient flood warnings during Storm Bert, which caused severe flooding across parts of south Wales and south-west England. With extreme rainfall becoming more frequent and intense due to human-driven climate change, regions already prone to flooding may face heightened risks.
The severity of this storm underscores the ongoing challenges presented by climate change, which is causing increasingly erratic and unpredictable weather patterns across the globe.
FAQ: Storm Darragh – Amber Wind Warning
- What is Storm Darragh?
Storm Darragh is the fourth named storm of the season, bringing strong winds of up to 80mph and heavy rain to the UK. It is expected to cause potential disruptions, including power cuts, flooding, and travel delays. - When is the storm expected to hit?
Storm Darragh will affect the UK from late Friday, December 6, through Saturday, December 7, with the amber wind warning from 3 am to 9 pm on Saturday. - What areas are under the amber wind warning?
The amber wind warning affects the west coast of the UK from South Ayrshire in Scotland to Cornwall, as well as Northern Ireland. - What should I do during the amber warning?
Avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors if you live in an affected area. Protect outdoor objects, as flying debris can risk life and property. - What is the risk of flooding?
There is a risk of flooding in parts of Northern Ireland, Wales, and south-west England, especially areas previously affected by Storm Bert. Up to 60mm of rain is expected, which could lead to flooding and disruptions. - How will travel be impacted?
Strong winds may cause travel delays, especially on roads such as the M5, A30, and M6. Some roads and bridges may be closed due to fallen trees and debris. Check National Highways and local travel updates for real-time information. - Will power cuts occur?
Yes, there is a risk of power outages, particularly in areas affected by strong winds and heavy rain. It’s advisable to have emergency supplies on hand in case of disruption. - Is this storm linked to climate change?
Yes, this storm is indeed linked to climate change. Extreme weather events, such as stronger storms and heavy rainfall, have become more frequent and intense due to climate change. This is because warmer air can hold more moisture, increasing the likelihood of such events. - What should I do if I’m in a flood-prone area?
If you’re in an area at risk of flooding, follow local flood alerts and warnings. Be prepared to act quickly if flooding occurs, and ensure your property is protected where possible. Staying informed and following local alerts will empower you to take necessary actions in case of flooding. - Where can I find more information?
Stay updated by following the Met Office’s weather warnings and local authorities and travel services for real-time updates on Storm Darragh.
