Warning: Amber
To expect: Wind
Affected areas: Northern Ireland
Start time estimate: Tuesday 2pm
End time estimate: Tuesday 7pm
Storm Bram prompts the Met Office to announce an Amber wind warning for Northern Ireland until Tuesday evening.
Severe winds are set to batter the region on Tuesday at around 2pm. The strong gusts are expected to continue lashing the area until 7pm.
The Amber warning for wind was issued at 7:49am on Tuesday, December 9.
A Met Office forecast said: “Winds are expected to increase further through the afternoon and early evening as Storm Bram tracks to the north of Northern Ireland. Southerly winds, becoming southwesterly during this period, within the amber warning area may increase to gust 60-70 mph with a chance of 80 mph or more around coasts and over hills for 2-3 hours, before dropping again. However, winds will continue to be very strong for some time after the amber warning expires, with the yellow warning continuing until 2200.”
What to expect
Power cuts could occur and affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage; Damage to buildings and homes is possible, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down; Roads, bridges and railway lines may close, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights; Flying debris could result in a danger to life.
What should you do?
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. Windy weather can cause delays and make travel conditions dangerous. Follow these few simple steps to prepare before journeys. Check bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary. If driving, check road conditions and ensure you have essentials in your car (warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, an in-car phone charger). 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.
What is an amber 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 Amber weather alert for wind will remain in effect until 7pm on Tuesday.