The Met Office has recently released new weather warnings for Wales, as the region braces for intense conditions including 70mph winds and up to 12 hours of continuous rain. Although temperatures are expected to rise slightly, the upcoming weekend is set to be very unsettled, with heavy rain and strong winds predicted for both Friday and Sunday.
Forecasters have issued a yellow alert for strong winds on Friday, covering parts of south, north, and west Wales from 8am to 3pm. Areas likely to be affected by winds reaching up to 60mph include Bridgend, Cardiff, Swansea, and other regions. Additionally, warnings have been extended to Sunday, with southerly to southwesterly winds expected to intensify through the morning, peaking in the late morning to early afternoon with gusts of 50-60mph, potentially reaching 70mph along the Irish Sea coastlines.
Accompanying the strong winds on Sunday, heavy rain is expected to impact a large portion of south-west and south-east Wales, with a yellow alert in place for 9 to 12 hours of rainfall from 9am to 9pm. The Met Office warns of around 30-50 mm of rain across the region, possibly reaching 60-90mm in the most exposed areas, particularly over high ground. These conditions are likely to create hazardous situations, especially on roadways, prompting caution from authorities.
Met Office’s Chief Meteorologist, Steve Willington, highlighted the transition from a cold easterly weather pattern to milder westerly conditions, which will introduce potentially impactful weather over the weekend. He mentioned that successive weather fronts carrying strong winds and heavy rain may lead to travel disruption, coastal hazards, and the likelihood of power outages. Temperatures are also set to rise significantly, potentially reaching 16°C in sheltered areas, well above the seasonal average.
Looking ahead, the Met Office foresees the continuation of the westerly weather pattern in the following week, with intermittent showers or prolonged rainy spells expected. After a brief spell of very mild weather, temperatures are forecasted to return to near-average levels in most areas. While the upcoming conditions pose challenges, the Met Office advises vigilance and preparedness for potential impacts on daily activities and travel plans.
As the weather outlook remains uncertain, staying informed and following official guidance can help mitigate risks associated with the impending severe conditions. Authorities urge residents and travellers to stay updated on weather advisories, exercise caution while outdoors, and take necessary precautions to ensure personal safety and well-being during the challenging weather period.