UK weather: Warning of falling trees, riptides and power cuts as Storm Antoni lashes UK

Falling trees, riptides and power cuts will pose risks as Storm Antoni lashes the UK with heavy rain and strong winds, the Met Office says.

Antoni – the first named storm of the year – will bring gusts of up to 60mph in the worst-affected areas, with forecasters issuing a danger to life warning.

Amber warnings for wind are in place until 7pm in southwest Wales and southwest England, while a wider yellow warning for wind across southern parts of the UK lasts until 8pm.

A yellow thunderstorm warning has also been issued until 10pm for south east England and East Anglia

Flying debris is possible, says the Met Office.

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According to the Met Office, Storm Antoni will be “potentially disruptive” as it moves from west to east – and it is likely some roads and bridges will need to close.

Senior operational meteorologist at the Met Office, Rachel Ayers, said the conditions could be attributed to the jet stream – a fast-flowing current of air – bringing in a low-pressure system across the UK.

Ms Ayers said: “We’re currently on the northern, cooler side of the jet… keeping the more settled weather further south.”

However, she was more optimistic about the coming week, saying it could be warmer and more settled than what the UK has experienced over the past month.

Few parts of the UK will escape downpours, cloud and cold conditions – with low pressure persisting following the sixth-wettest July in history.

Chief meteorologist Steve Willington said: “Northern Ireland is likely to see some of the highest rainfall totals, with 40 to 60mm falling in some spots, but 20 to 30mm more widely.

“Away from the warning area many will still see a very wet day, especially in north Wales and north England.”

Some outdoor events planned for this weekend have been cancelled, with Dorset jazz festival Stompin’ on the Quomps postponed for the first time in its 30-year history.

About 10,000 people were expected to attend, but organisers were concerned for the safety of both traders and spectators alike.

However, one event that is going ahead is Brighton Pride despite a yellow weather warning being issued for the coastal city.

Revellers gathered on the wet streets cloaked in ponchos as performers waltzed through the streets despite the heavy rain and winds.

NHS nurse Leo Gonzales travelled from London to the festival, and despite getting “drenched”, he said everyone was having “fun [in an] engaging and inclusive” environment.

Antoni is the second storm to cross the UK in five days – and although temperatures are set to hit the mid-teens, it won’t feel like it.

Winds are set to ease as the afternoon progresses, with rain clearing from eastern areas early on Sunday to leave a quieter day with sunshine and showers for most.