Storm Darragh Brings Red Weather Warning
Storm Darragh is set to bring disruptive weather to large parts of the UK starting later today and continuing through Saturday. The storm, marked by strong winds and heavy rain, has prompted the Met Office to issue a rare red weather warning for parts of Wales and the South West of England, including Cardiff, Bristol, and Devon. This warning, in effect from 3 AM to 11 AM on Saturday, predicts gusts of up to 90 mph that could pose a danger to life. The Met Office has warned of flying debris, fallen trees, and large waves impacting coastal roads and seafronts.
In addition to the red warning, there are amber warnings in place for various regions, including Northern Ireland, Wales, and parts of Scotland, particularly for Saturday morning. These areas are expected to face damaging winds and heavy rainfall, potentially leading to power outages, transport disruptions, and significant damage to property. Snow is also a concern in higher areas of Scotland, with up to 20 cm expected above 400m.
The Met Office has warned that the winds are likely to cause significant disruption, stressing the potential risks to life and property. The strongest winds will ease by late Saturday morning, but it will remain windy for the rest of the day. Yellow warnings for rain and snow are also in place across many parts of the UK, including areas already recovering from the effects of Storm Bert, which caused severe flooding in November.
The Irish Meteorological Service has issued a red wind warning for parts of Ireland, including counties Donegal, Leitrim, and Sligo, which will be in effect from Friday evening through to early Saturday morning. These areas can expect similar conditions to the UK, with wind gusts of 90 mph or more along coastal regions.
Heavy rain is another major concern, with an amber warning for southern Wales predicting up to 90 mm of rainfall, which may lead to flooding and travel disruptions. Many parts of Scotland and northern England are also expected to see rain, which could cause delays to bus and train services. The Environment Agency has issued multiple flood warnings, indicating the widespread impact of the storm.
As Storm Darragh moves across the UK, drivers are being urged to prepare for hazardous conditions, particularly in exposed rural and coastal routes. The RAC has advised postponing journeys where possible due to the "highly unusual" nature of the storm. Motorists should check their vehicles before heading out and adjust their driving to match the challenging weather.
The storm is the fourth named storm of the year, following Ashley, Bert, and Conall. Experts warn that extreme weather events like this are becoming more frequent as the planet warms. The UN has reported that global heavy rainfall events are increasing, and Storm Darragh serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by climate change.
With conditions set to worsen over the weekend, it's essential for people to stay up to date with weather forecasts and take precautions. The storm's impacts could last through Saturday evening, and those in affected areas should be prepared for potential disruptions to their daily routines.
