Storm Darragh is likely to cross Ireland late Friday, then parts of England and Wales on Saturday, clearing to the east of England on Saturday night or early Sunday.
The Met Office said:
‘Darragh could bring a period of strong winds to much of the warning area.
‘Winds will initially be from a southerly direction, but the strongest winds are likely as the low clears away when northerly or northwesterly winds may quite widely gust to around 40-50 mph inland but locally could gust in excess of 60 mph.
‘Around coasts, winds may gust to 60-70 mph, perhaps locally nearer 80 mph.
‘The wind may cause disruption to travel, with difficult driving conditions likely. The duration of the strongest winds in any one location is likely to be less than 24 hours, but this warning is for a more extended period to cover the passage of the strong winds over the whole country. These start in the west on Friday evening, and clear from the east coasts of England and Scotland early on Sunday.
‘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. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
@westbridgfordwirenewsStorm Darragh will bring impacts to large parts of the UK from later tomorrow and into Saturday. Storm Darragh follows on from a period of unsettled and squally conditions. The large area of low pressure is expected to bring a period of strong winds to much of the UK. Heavy rain will also be a feature of Storm Darragh with the heaviest rainfall expected to be focussed in the northern and western parts of the warning area. Some hill snow in the north in areas above 200m elevation can also be expected.♬ original sound – West Bridgford Wire News
‘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.
‘Check if your property could be at risk of flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.
‘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.’
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