An urgent warning has been issued as Storm Lilian hits with 80mph winds across parts of Wales and England. The Met Office has raised concerns about danger along coastal areas, with some regions experiencing heavy rain, high winds, and thunderstorms. Events have been cancelled, and people are advised to avoid roads and prepare for disruption.
Forecasts indicate gusts of up to 80mph, leading to travel disturbances, flooding, power outages, and hazardous conditions near the coast. Yellow weather warnings for rain have been issued in south-west Scotland and the Aberdeenshire coast, with a possibility of thunder and 20-30mm of rainfall. Northern England and north Wales are under a yellow wind warning, with gusts expected to reach 50-60mph.
National Highways has closed the M48 Severn Bridge between Aust and Chepstow due to strong winds. Met Office forecaster Greg Dewhurst highlighted that the strongest winds would move quickly through northern areas before easing off towards the North Sea. The storm is set to ease by Friday afternoon, with scattered showers expected.
A New Order music concert in Cardiff has been cancelled due to the severe weather forecast. With many planned leisure trips by car over the weekend, the RAC has warned drivers to be cautious and avoid exposed areas. Network Rail is monitoring the storm’s impact on rail networks to ensure safe operations.
Storm Lilian is the 12th named storm of the season and the first since April. Storms are named when they have the potential to cause disruption or damage, triggering amber or red warnings. The adverse weather conditions are likely to persist over the weekend, affecting various parts of the UK with rain and gusty winds. Stay updated with the latest news and weather advisories to stay safe during Storm Lilian’s impact.