Gale-force winds forecasted to batter South West England and Wales amid yellow warning

Published Jan 19, 2026

Warning: Yellow

To expect: Wind

Affected areas: South West England, Wales

Start time estimate: Tuesday 4am

End time estimate: Tuesday 4pm

The Met Office has announced a Yellow wind alert for South West England and Wales for Tuesday. All local areas affected are listed below.

The regions will be impacted by intense winds, starting at around 4am on Tuesday. The high winds will continue lashing the areas until 4pm.

The Yellow warning for wind was issued at 8:28am on Monday, January 19.

A Met Office forecast said: “South-easterly winds will become strong and gusty during Tuesday morning, particularly over and to the northwest of high ground where gusts of 45-50 mph are likely. Meanwhile, a band of heavy rain will reach the Isles of Scilly before dawn and move east through the day, accompanied by inland wind gusts of 45-55 mph and possibly 60-65 mph over the most exposed hills and coasts. The winds will ease once the band of rain clears through.”

What to expect

Some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport are likely; Probably some bus and train services affected, with some journeys taking longer; Delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges likely; Some short term loss of power and other services is possible; It’s likely that some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities will be affected by spray and/or large waves.

What should you do during strong gusts?

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. 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 Met Office Warnings & Advice.

Full list of local areas affected

South West England
Cornwall, Devon, Isles of Scilly, Plymouth, Somerset, Torbay

Wales
Bridgend, Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Conwy, Gwynedd, Isle of Anglesey, Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Swansea, Vale of Glamorgan

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 4pm on Tuesday.