The UK’s break from violent weather is set to end in hours as the Met Office issues two weather warnings for both wind and rain. The first warning, solely for rain, will be activated from noon on Monday until 5am on Tuesday.
It says heavy downpours may lead to some flooding and impacts to travel – particularly for evening commuters. The impact areas highlighted are Durham, Blackburn with Darwen, Blackpool, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, North Yorkshire and West Yorkshire.
Its statement said: “Rain will become prolonged and heavy at times during Monday afternoon and evening, easing from the west overnight. Around 20-30 mm of rain will fall widely with 40-50 mm in a few places, mainly over high ground.”
Among the advice offered to people living in affected areas – residents are warned about checking the flood-risk to their homes, and preparing a flood plan and emergency kit.
Travel plans may need to be amended at the last minute, and weather warnings may be updated with little notice.
The second warning for wind comes into play for a 12 hour period – from 7am on Wednesday until 7pm. This alert covers Eilean Siar, Highland, Orkney Islands and Shetland Islands – but is arguably of more concern given the projection of wind speeds.
In a statement it added: “Very strong southwesterly winds will develop during Wednesday, easing again from the west later in the day. Gusts of 65-75 mph are likely, with a few places perhaps seeing gusts of up to 85 mph at times.”
In terms of what to expect, the Met Office says there is a “danger to life” with large materials being blown off coastlines and onto pathways and vehicles.
There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, with tiles being blown off roofs. Some homes may experience blackouts, and mobile phone coverage may be interrupted.
It added: “There is a small chance of injuries and danger to life from flying debris.”
Cancellations to public transport may occur with barely any warning, which could also affect ferries and flights. High rise bridges may also shut suddenly if winds begin to exceed certain speed thresholds.
It comes as weather maps predict near-freezing winds pushing across from the east from early this week. They echo the sentiment that northern Scotland will see the biggest impacts in terms of potential wind damage.
In a brief UK-wide forecast for this week, the Met Office continued: “It will be dry on Tuesday, though turning wet and windy from Wednesday with severe gales in the northwest.
“It will be staying unsettled on Thursday, though not as windy. It will be feeling very mild through the week.”
