Warning: Yellow
To expect: Wind
Affected areas: SW Scotland, Lothian Borders, Strathclyde, Wales
Start time estimate: Friday 9am
End time estimate: Friday 4pm
The Met Office has announced a Yellow wind warning for SW Scotland, Lothian Borders, Strathclyde and Wales for Friday.
The warning is covering parts of SW Scotland, Lothian Borders, Strathclyde, Wales. All local areas affected are listed below.
Strong gusts are anticipated to batter the regions, arriving across the areas at around 9am on Friday and will continue sweeping through until 4pm.
The Yellow warning for wind was announced at 10:29am on Wednesday, February 19.
A Met Office forecast said: “Southerly winds will increase on Friday morning, with gusts of 50-60 mph likely for exposed coasts and hills of western Britain. Some parts of the warning area may see gusts of 70 mph for a time. Winds ease from the west during the afternoon.”
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 gale-force winds?
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
SW Scotland, Lothian Borders
Dumfries and Galloway
Strathclyde
East Ayrshire, South Ayrshire
Wales
Bridgend, Cardiff, 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 effect until 4pm on Friday.