The Met Office has provided an update on the status of Storm Darragh as it brings life-threatening winds to Wales. A rare red weather warning, signifying danger to life, is in place until 11 am on Saturday, December 7. Following this, amber warnings for wind and rain will take over, with disruptions expected throughout the day and night.
Named officially on Thursday, Storm Darragh is set to cause disturbances across the UK over the weekend. The Met Office issued a red weather warning for wind in certain Welsh regions, cautioning about potential hazards like flying debris and falling trees. The damaging winds are anticipated to lead to significant disruptions, with the red warning active from 3 am to 11 am on Saturday.
Subsequently, the Met Office introduced an amber weather warning for rain on Saturday, with a forecast of 80-90mm of rainfall. Emergency alerts were sent to millions of smartphones in Wales on Friday evening, highlighting potential dangers to life. The Welsh Government clarified that these alerts are reserved for areas facing life-threatening situations, managed by the UK Government.
Unfavourable weather predictions prompted the cancellation of various Christmas events and attractions across Wales. Winter wonderland attractions in Cardiff and Swansea were closed from Friday evening till Sunday morning. Similar adjustments were made at Christmas at Bute Park, with activities cancelled on Saturday, December 7.
On Saturday morning, sections of the M4 around Port Talbot, Bridgend, Port Talbot, and Newport were shut, alongside the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge and the M48 Severn Bridge. The national grid reported 55,000 homes without power in the UK, most concentrated in south Wales, with over 300,000 homes affected during the storm. Wind gusts of 93mph at Capel Curig and 92mph at Aberdaron were recorded in Wales, while 89mph was reported in north Devon.
In South Wales, an amber rain warning is in place for potentially 80-90mm of rainfall during the storm, with additional yellow rain warnings covering the rest of Wales. Met Office Chief Meteorologist Steve Willington mentioned that Storm Darragh will bring strong winds and heavy rain across the UK, emphasizing the safety protocols to follow during severe weather.
As Storm Darragh progresses, the strongest winds are expected to ease later on Saturday, followed by colder northerly winds and possible wintry showers in the north on Sunday. By Monday, high pressure is anticipated to settle over the northern UK, leading to more stable conditions. The Met Office advises staying updated with the latest forecasts and listening to local responders and emergency services during severe weather.
### Summary:
The Met Office has issued a red weather warning for life-threatening winds from Storm Darragh in Wales, followed by amber warnings for wind and rain. Disruptions are expected throughout the weekend, leading to the cancellation of Christmas events. Emergency alerts were sent to millions of smartphones, highlighting the potential dangers. Power outages affected thousands of homes, with significant wind gusts recorded in Wales and Devon. Met Office warns of flying debris, falling trees, and heavy rain, urging caution and staying informed during the storm.