The Met Office has issued a red weather warning, the highest possible alert level, as Storm Darragh is set to bring damaging winds and severe disruption to parts of the UK.
The warning is in effect from 3am to 11am tomorrow, with areas along the western coast of England and Wales expected to bear the brunt of the storm. The winds pose a threat to life, and the Met Office is urging people to take immediate precautions.
Areas Affected
The red warning covers a wide swath of the west coast, including parts of:
- North West England
- Wales
- South West England
Winds are forecasted to reach speeds of 80-100 mph, particularly in exposed coastal areas.
Potential Impacts
The Met Office has highlighted a number of risks associated with Storm Darragh, including:
- Threat to life from flying debris.
- Significant structural damage to buildings.
- Fallen trees and power outages.
- Disruption to transport networks, with delays or cancellations to road, rail, air, and ferry services.
- Hazardous conditions for coastal areas, with large waves and potential flooding.
Advice for Residents
Residents in affected areas are being urged to:
- Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
- Secure loose items outdoors.
- Stay indoors and away from windows during the peak of the storm.
- Follow updates from the Met Office and local authorities.
Expert Warnings
A Met Office spokesperson emphasized the severity of the situation, stating:
“Storm Darragh is an exceptionally powerful weather system that poses significant dangers. We urge everyone in the affected areas to take this warning seriously and take all necessary precautions to stay safe.”
Public Response
Emergency services are on high alert, and councils in the affected regions are preparing to respond to potential damage and disruption. Transport operators have advised passengers to check for updates before traveling.
Stay Updated
For the latest updates on Storm Darragh, visit the Met Office website or follow their official social media channels. Further updates will follow as the situation develops.
