Warning: Amber
To expect: Wind
Affected areas: South West England
Start time estimate: Thursday 4pm
End time estimate: Thursday 11pm
The Met Office has issued an updated Amber wind warning for South West England for Thursday, with conditions linked to Storm Goretti.
The region will be affected by high winds, starting at around 4pm on Thursday. The strong gusts will continue lashing the area until 11pm.
The updated Amber warning for wind was announced at 8:50am on Thursday, January 8.
A Met Office forecast said: “Storm Goretti is likely to bring a period of exceptionally strong northwesterly winds to the Isles of Scilly and parts of Cornwall on Thursday evening, with peak gusts of 80-100 mph in exposed areas. Winds are expected to increase rapidly from 30-40 mph with violent gusts that may persist for 2-3 hours before easing. Winds will remain strong with the broader yellow warning in force until Friday morning. In addition, very large waves will bring dangerous conditions to some coastal areas. There is still a degree of uncertainty over the exact track of Storm Goretti, and should the low pressure system track further south the risk of these very strong winds would reduce.”
What to expect
Damage to buildings and homes is likely, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down. Flying debris could result in a danger to life; Roads, bridges and railway lines are likely to close, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights; There is a good chance that power cuts could occur and possibly affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage; Large waves are likely and beach material is likely to be thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.
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 updated 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 place until 11pm on Thursday.