The UK is Bracing for Storm Darragh – The UK is bracing for Storm Darragh which is expected to bring winds of up to 80 mph in parts of the country. The storm is expected to bring heavy rain and potential flooding this weekend, prompting a life-threatening warning.
The UK Is Bracing for Storm Darragh
lxnews – The Met Office has issued a series of yellow weather warnings, which came into force on Thursday morning and will continue until Sunday. They cover most of the UK, except for parts of northern Scotland. On Saturday, two warnings were issued for “potentially strong winds,” covering Northern Ireland and south-west Scotland, as well as the entire west coast of England and Wales.
The Environment Agency is continuing to monitor Storm Darragh, the fourth storm of the season, and has warned people to avoid driving through water due to the risk of flooding, particularly in the north and west of England. Catherine Smith, the agency’s flood task manager, said that heavy rain was expected to move quickly into Thursday evening.
“Our teams are standing by to assist local authorities with any surface water flooding,” Ms Smith said. “We strongly advise people not to drive through floodwaters – the water can be much deeper than it appears, and even 30cm of water can float your car.”
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As the storm approaches, caution and precautions become increasingly important, given the threat to safety and infrastructure in affected areas.
Forecaster Darragh is predicting “very strong north-easterly or north-westerly winds” throughout Saturday as the storm moves from west to east. Wind speeds are expected to reach between 70 and 80mph, with gusts reaching 60 to 70mph when it makes landfall.
Affected residents, particularly those who received severe weather warnings this weekend, are urged to take care and avoid driving due to the potentially hazardous conditions.
Weather warnings for wind and rain will be in place for different areas at different times, with details from the Independent Government on areas affected.
The National Highways will issue a road warning advising drivers to “adjust their driving behaviour” if weather conditions worsen.
Dale Hipkiss, duty manager at the National Highways, warned: “If you are planning to drive in the coming days, plan your journey well in advance and take extra care on the roads. If the weather becomes challenging, adjust your driving to stay safe. Make sure to check the condition of your vehicle, including tyres, coolant and oil levels, before setting off to reduce the risk of damage.”
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What caused Storm Darragh?
Storm Darragh follows a period of “unstable and uncertain weather”.
A spreading low pressure area will bring strong winds and heavy rain to large parts of the UK, particularly in the north and west, where the rainfall is expected to be concentrated.
Snow is also expected in northern areas above 200 metres.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Jason Kelly explained: “Storm Darragh will bring some danger, particularly along the west coast, from Devon and Cornwall to south-west Scotland and Northern Ireland. We can expect wind gusts of 70-80mph, with maximum gusts reaching 60-70mph. However, in low-lying areas, wind speeds are expected to ease slightly.”
How to stay safe in strong winds
The Met Office has issued a series of tips for staying safe in areas affected by strong winds this weekend.
Here’s what the Met Office recommends if Storm Darragh brings strong winds to your area:
1. Protect Your Property: Check and secure flying items outside your home to prevent injury or damage.
2. Plan Your Route and Carry Essentials: Windy weather can cause delays and increase the risk of driving.
3. Drive Carefully and Slowly: Driving in these conditions can be extremely dangerous for you and other road users.
4. Be Aware of Coastal Areas: Check weather forecasts and tidal conditions, and be aware of the possibility of high waves. Walk carefully near cliffs.
5. Stay Home If Possible: The stronger the wind, the greater the risk of injury. If you must leave your home, avoid walking near buildings or trees.
With these steps, it is hoped that the public can maintain safety and reduce risks when Storm Darragh hits.
