The Met Office has issued an urgent storm warning as Britain is set to be battered by 70mph winds and heavy rainfall this weekend. The forecaster has issued a yellow alert across most of the UK this weekend, with heavy winds expected throughout the day on Saturday.
The warnings have so far been issued for eight regions of Britain. Wind warnings are currently in place for the East Midlands. South West England, the East of England, the West Midlands, North West England, Northern Ireland, Wales, and Yorkshire and Humber. People living in these areas can expect some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport links, while buses and train delays and can be expected. Power cuts are also possible.
The warning is in place for nearly 15 hours, between 9am on Saturday, December 9 and 11.45pm the same day. The Met Office said: “Winds will increase in the west during Saturday morning then across other areas through the afternoon. Gusts of 45 to 55 mph are likely quite widely, with 60-70 mph possible along Irish Sea coasts.”
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A spokesperson for the forecaster added: “Winds then easing slowly from the west through the evening. What should I do? Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.
“People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items. If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves.
“Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.”
Meanwhile there is a separate eight-hour rain warning in place between 1am and 9am for the south west of Scotland, as well as the north west of England and a small part of the south west between Portsmouth and Plymouth. A spokesperson for the Met Office said: Following the heavy rainfall of recent days, a further spell of heavy rain early on Saturday may bring further disruption to travel.
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