A powerful storm system, named Storm Eowyn, is set to bring strong winds and heavy rainfall to the UK, with the Met Office issuing yellow wind warnings for much of the country. The storm is expected to develop above the North Atlantic, fueled by a strong temperature contrast between tropical and Arctic air. This will result in a very powerful Jet Stream, with winds of up to 250mph, potentially leading to the strongest winds of the winter so far.
The storm will bring a spell of strong south-easterly to south-westerly winds, with gusts reaching 50-60mph inland and 70-80mph along coasts. The highest rainfall accumulations are likely in western parts of Scotland, England, and Wales, where 20-30mm could fall in places.
The storm is expected to undergo explosive cyclogenesis, or a ‘weather bomb,’ in the Atlantic on Thursday. This criteria is met when the central pressure of a low pressure system falls by more than 24 millibars in 24 hours, and the system is expected to deepen by 35 millibars in the first 12 hours of Thursday.
The Met Office has issued yellow wind warnings for Friday, affecting most of the UK, including the south-west of England, the Midlands, northern England, Northern Ireland, and Scotland. The disruption is not expected to affect inland areas in the south-east of the country, including London, but will hit the coast, with the warning extending to Brighton and Dover.
The forecaster advised securing loose items outside homes, including bins, garden furniture, trampolines, and sheds, and gathering torches and batteries in case of any power cut. Those travelling in this ‘disruptive spell of weather’ are urged to be cautious, as road, rail, airports, and ferries are likely to be affected.
Another area of low pressure could bring further wet and very windy weather across the UK by Sunday. There is the potential for further weather warnings over the weekend and throughout next week, the Met Office added.
The strongest gusts are likely to be felt across parts of Northern Ireland, northern England, north-western Wales, and western Scotland, where exposed sites could get gusts in excess of 80mph, which has the potential to cause impacts for those in these areas. There will also be some heavy rain, bringing some unpleasant conditions to end the week.
The Met Office added: ‘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.’
Conclusion
Storm Eowyn is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rainfall to the UK, with the potential to cause significant disruption. It is essential to take necessary precautions, such as securing loose items outside homes and gathering essential items in case of a power cut. Travellers are advised to be cautious and check for updates from the Met Office before embarking on their journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the name of the storm system that is expected to hit the UK?
A: The storm system is named Storm Eowyn.
Q: What is expected to happen with the winds and rainfall?
A: The storm is expected to bring strong winds, with gusts reaching up to 80mph in some areas, and heavy rainfall, with accumulations of up to 30mm in some areas.
Q: What areas will be affected by the storm?
A: The storm is expected to affect most of the UK, including the south-west of England, the Midlands, northern England, Northern Ireland, and Scotland.
Q: What can I do to prepare for the storm?
A: You should secure loose items outside your home, gather torches and batteries in case of a power cut, and stay informed about updates from the Met Office. If you are planning to travel, check for updates before embarking on your journey.