The Met Office has issued a yellow wind warning for several regions across the UK for Wednesday and Thursday, January 1 and 2. The forecaster said high winds would kick in from around 9am on New Year’s Day.
The intense winds will continue lashing the areas until Thursday 6am. The full list of areas affected includes East Midlands, East of England, London and South East England, North East England, North West England, South West England, Wales, West Midlands and Yorkshire and Humber. The warning was issued on Sunday morning, December 29.
A Met Office forecast said: “A deep area of low pressure is expected to cross the UK from the west, bringing a spell of very strong winds. Gusts of 65-75 mph are likely around coasts and hills, especially in the south and west, with 50-60 mph gusts likely fairly widely inland.”
What to expect
There is a small chance of injuries and danger to life from flying debris, the Met Office said. There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs.
There is a small chance of longer journey times or cancellations as road, rail, air and ferry services are affected. There is a small chance that some roads and bridges could close.
It said there was a chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage. Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.
What should you do during strong winds?
Prepare to protect your property and people from injury. Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them. Items include bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences.
Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary. People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance, the Met Office said.
Consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items. If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves.
Even from the shore, large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly. When a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area. For further details see https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/uk-warnings.
What is a yellow weather warning?
The Met Office has three categories of weather warning, depending on the likely impact of severe weather and also how likely it is to strike in a particular area.
A yellow warning is issued when weather conditions are expected to disrupt travel and traffic and may impact on daily routines but are not likely to pose a risk to life or property.
An amber warning is more severe and advises people to think about changing their plans to minimise the risk.
A red warning means weather conditions are expected to be dangerous with widespread damage to property and a risk to life, with the public usually advised to avoid travelling.
The yellow weather alert for wind will remain in place until 6am on Thursday.