The South West has been hit with heavy rain and strong winds from Storm Darragh today (Saturday, December 7). The Met Office has issued an amber wind warning which is in place until 9pm tonight.
Forecasters said that wind speeds could reach 80mph in coastal areas and have warned of widespread travel disruption, flying debris, fallen trees and power cuts. The turbulent weather is expected to continue tomorrow (December 8) before easing at the start of next week.
The Met Office said that it will remain very windy across the South West overnight as temperatures drop as low as 4C. There will then be coastal gales tomorrow with forecasters expecting it to feel cold.
On Storm Darragh, the Met Office said: “A period of very strong northerly or northwesterly winds is likely to develop during Saturday as Storm Darragh moves from west to east. Gusts of 70 to 80 mph are likely around exposed coasts and headlands, where some very large waves are likely, whilst gusts of 60 to 70 mph are likely inland. The strongest winds will ease from the west through the afternoon.”
Met Office 5-day forecast for the South West
Today: Very strong northwesterly winds bringing widespread disruption. Some dangerous conditions in coastal regions due to Storm Darragh. Often cloudy with rain or showers though drier in western areas. Feeling cold in the strong winds. Maximum temperature 9 °C.
Tonight: Staying very windy overnight with gale force northwesterly winds, these only slowly abating by the morning. Showery rain at first though turning drier later. Cold but remaining largely frost-free. Minimum temperature 4 °C.
Sunday: Less stormy than on Saturday but still a windy day with coastal gales at first. Occasional sunny spells but often rather cloudy with a chance of isolated showers. Feeling cold. Maximum temperature 9 °C.
Outlook for Monday to Wednesday: Brisk easterly winds at first, especially in southern coastal districts. Often cloudy with the odd shower on Monday, then drier with lighter winds by mid-week. Feeling rather cold.