UK
UK weather: Warnings as Storm Agnes set to bring 80mph winds to large parts of country
The Met Office has named a major storm set to hit parts of the UK ‘Agnes’, as it warned of a possible “danger to life”.
A yellow warning for Storm Agnes is in place for much of the country from 10am on Wednesday to 7am on Thursday.
It spans from the southwest of England, up to Scotland and across to Northern Ireland.
A yellow warning for wind is in place from 10am on Wednesday to 7am on Thursday. Pic: Met Office
“Injuries and danger to life from flying debris” are possible, the Met Office said, as it warned of “large waves and beach material being thrown on to sea fronts, coastal roads and properties”.
It said the spell of “significantly disruptive” strong winds could cause damage to buildings, power cuts and travel disruption.
Check the latest forecast where you are
Mark Sidaway, deputy chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “A deep area of low pressure is expected to approach southwest Ireland early on Wednesday, and track across northern parts of the UK before clearing early Thursday.
“There is some uncertainty on the precise track and strength of this weather system, however the most likely outcome at present is for a wide swathe of 50 to 60mph gusts affecting inland areas.”
He added: “Some Irish Sea coasts could see gusts of 65 to 75mph, with a small chance of 80mph gusts on the most exposed coasts and headlands.”
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Storms also hit parts of the US.
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A spokesperson for the RAC said: “The Met Office’s latest forecast suggests drivers will feel some short but sharp effects of Storm Agnes later on Wednesday and into Thursday.
“Gusty winds are likely to be the biggest feature, so avoiding exposed coastal and upland routes is a good idea for anyone less confident driving in these sorts of conditions.
“Driving more slowly with both hands on the steering wheel, and taking particular care when overtaking high-sided vehicles to avoid being buffeted, is a must.”
They added: “Anyone towing or carrying loads on the roof should also ensure they’re properly secured before setting out.”
It follows a period of heavy rain as the remnants of two hurricanes – Lee and Nigel – swept across the country.
The weather couldn’t have been more different earlier in the month though, when – for the first time ever in September – a heatwave saw temperatures in the UK top 30C for seven days in a row.
Saturday marked the autumn equinox, when summer officially ends and autumn begins.