The Met Office has upgraded the weather warning for Storm Éowyn in Wales to an amber “danger to life” status. As Storm Éowyn approaches, several weather warnings have been issued across the UK for the upcoming days. The most severe warning is set for Friday, with an amber weather warning for wind in effect from 6 am to 9 pm. This warning covers a significant portion of north Wales, Northern Ireland, north England, and southern Scotland.
Even though the amber weather warning for wind covers only a portion of Wales, there are additional yellow weather warnings for wind that span the entire country from midnight Thursday until midnight Friday. The amber warning highlights the likelihood of power cuts and a significant risk of flying debris posing a threat to life. The warning also mentions that road, rail, air, and ferry services are likely to be impacted, with potential damages to homes and buildings.
According to the forecast from the Met Office, Storm Éowyn is expected to move across the northwest of the UK on Friday, gradually clearing into the northeast by Friday night. This movement will bring strong west to southwesterly winds, with peak gusts reaching 60-70 mph inland, 70-80 mph in certain areas, and up to 80-90 mph along more exposed coastal and hilly regions. There could even be higher wind speeds in some locations. It’s noted that there might be a temporary decrease in wind strength as the center of Storm Éowyn passes over some areas before winds intensify again.
The areas in Wales affected by the amber warning include Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, and the Isle of Anglesey. In addition to the wind warning, a yellow weather warning for rain has been issued for most of Wales on Friday from midnight to 9 am. This warning indicates heavy rain moving across the area with accumulations of 15-25 mm expected widely and potentially up to 40-60 mm over high ground, which could lead to localized surface water flooding.
Parts of England and Scotland have been advised to prepare for snow and ice on Friday evening, with some areas likely to see between two to five cm of snow. Meanwhile, the entire UK has been placed under a yellow weather warning for wind throughout Friday, with varying peak gusts depending on the location. As Storm Éowyn progresses, winds are anticipated to ease gradually later in the day, particularly across southern areas.
It is essential for residents in the affected regions to stay updated on the weather forecasts and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during the severe weather conditions expected. The authorities are advising people to secure their properties, stay indoors if possible, and avoid any unnecessary travel during the period of heightened weather risks. Stay tuned for further updates on the storm and follow the guidance from local authorities to stay safe.