The UK is bracing for a weekend of disruptive winds as the Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings across various regions. Flintshire residents are particularly urged to prepare for gusts projected to reach speeds of 50–60 mph, with coastal and high-ground areas possibly experiencing winds of up to 70 mph. The weather alerts will be active from 7:00 AM to 11:59 PM on Saturday and throughout Sunday, and they are part of broader warnings across Wales and northern England.
According to the Met Office, the strong winds are expected to cause significant delays and disruptions to public transport and the road network, especially during this busy pre-Christmas travel period. A spokesperson from the Met Office noted, "This has the potential to cause delays to public transport and some disruption to the road network, which may have a greater-than-usual impact..." Given the festive getaway, the forecast couldn’t come at a more inconvenient time for many.
Residents have been informed to expect widespread issues with travel across various modes, including road, rail, air, and ferry transport. High-sided vehicles are particularly at risk on vulnerable routes and bridges, as they could be destabilized by the strong gusts. Further, the Met Office has warned of hazardous conditions for coastal communities, predicting large waves and possible coastal flooding, which could add to the overall disruption. The Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Rebekah Hicks, emphasized the unfortunate timing of these severe weather conditions, remarking, "This period of disruptive weather coincides with...the festive getaway starts for many."
On Sunday, December 22, another weather warning is set to take effect, lasting until 9 PM. This prolonged period of winds is forecasted to coincide with the height of pre-Christmas travel as many head out to celebrate with family and friends. Drivers and passengers alike are being advised to prepare for travel delays due to strong winds and squally showers which may include hail and possible thunderstorms. The expectation for gusts ranges from 50 to 60 mph across broad swathes of the UK, and the Met Office has even indicated gusts could hit 70 mph along exposed coasts and hilltops.
“Strong and gusty northwesterly winds are expected on Sunday...with gusts of 50 to 60 mph, with 70 mph possible around some exposed coasts and hills," the Met Office's forecast stated, which raises alarms for those venturing out during the high winds. Dangerous coastal conditions are also anticipated, with the added hazard of large waves posing risks to safety, with the Met Office warning: "Large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea." Residents living near these coastal areas are advised to exercise extreme caution, to check travel updates regularly, and adjust their plans accordingly.
This intense bout of stormy weather is not without precedent, as it follows recent disruptions caused by Storm Bert and Storm Darragh, which heavily impacted Wiltshire and other areas. With such conditions persisting through the weekend, it’s important for everyone to stay aware of the weather forecasts and understand the full extent of potential disruptions before heading out.
Despite the impending windstorm woes, the forecast does point to milder weather as Christmas Day approaches. Early next week, winds are expected to ease, promising a more settled Yuletide period. The days surrounding Christmas will see occasional rain or drizzle on Christmas Eve, with the prognosis for Christmas Day indicating it will likely be mostly dry and cloudy, with mild temperatures across the UK. That said, it still poses the question—how will these weekend winds impact holiday plans?
Residents are urged once more to heed the warnings, particularly as they plan their travels amid the turbulent weather conditions. With potential for power outages and travel chaos, the weekend leading up to Christmas could very well turn out to be more challenging than festive. So, will the Christmas travel plans be thwarted by the weather? Only time will tell.
