A ‘weather bomb’ is set to hit the UK, with six flood alerts in place across London. The Met Office has warned of a ‘danger to life’ as Storm Ashley is expected to bring powerful winds and heavy rain, affecting large parts of the country.
Gusts of up to 80mph are anticipated in some regions. An amber weather warning has been issued for certain parts of the UK from 9 am on Sunday until midnight, while a yellow warning will also be in place between 3 am and midnight.
Amber and Yellow Weather Warnings Issued
The Met Office has advised that the storm could lead to power cuts, damage to buildings, and significant disruption to transport services. There is also the risk of coastal flooding in some areas.
Deputy Chief Meteorologist Tony Wisson said:
“Storm Ashley will bring strong winds for most of the UK on Sunday before it clears on Monday. We expect disruption across parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, Northwest England, and West Wales.”
He added that especially strong winds could reach 70-80mph in western Scotland, with an amber warning issued for these regions. Inland areas could experience gusts between 50-60mph, while exposed coasts may see winds of 60-70mph.
Flood Alerts Across London
While London is not under the wind warnings related to Storm Ashley, six flood alerts are active across the capital, particularly in West London and near London Bridge.
- Tidal Thames Riverside from Thames Barrier to Putney Bridge
Flooding of low-lying roads and footpaths is expected due to high tides, with a forecast high tide at London Bridge at 3:30 pm on Saturday. - Tidal Thames Riverside from Putney Bridge to Teddington Weir
High tides at Richmond are forecasted at 4:15 pm on Saturday, with the possibility of flooding at locations including Putney Embankment and Strand on the Green. - Tidal River Crane at Twickenham
Due to high river flows, the Crane Tidal Gates may not close, potentially leading to high water levels and garden flooding. - River Thames at Trowlock Island
High tides are forecasted at Trowlock Island, with water levels expected to reach between 5.01m and 5.14m on Saturday evening. - River Thames from Hampton to Teddington
High tides are expected at Kingston, with levels possibly reaching up to 5.19m, affecting low-lying land and roads. - Lower River Colne and Frays River
Flooding is anticipated to affect low-lying land and roads around Uxbridge and West Drayton, including the Riverside Mobile Home Park area.
What is a Weather Bomb?
A ‘weather bomb’ refers to a rapidly intensifying storm. This process, known as cyclogenesis, occurs when a low-pressure area strengthens by at least 24 millibars within 24 hours, causing extreme winds and potential damage.
London’s Weather Forecast
Saturday (October 19) is expected to bring mild conditions, with temperatures peaking at 17°C. However, rain is forecasted to arrive on Sunday morning, lasting until early afternoon, with temperatures around 16°C. Monday is predicted to be a drier day, with some sunshine emerging by mid-morning.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated via the Met Office’s official channels and the Environment Agency’s flood alert map.
For those in affected areas, it is advised to take precautions and stay safe as Storm Ashley moves across the UK.
