Storm Agnes Approaches: UK and Ireland Activate Weather Alerts
As the UK and Ireland prepare for Storm Agnes, a series of weather warnings are set to come into effect. The impending storm, the season’s first named tempest, is scheduled to first touch down on Ireland’s west coast by Wednesday and proceed to the UK around midday.
The Met Office has issued multiple advisories: a yellow wind warning spanning from Wednesday noon to Thursday 7 a.m. covering regions including Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales, the south-west of England, the West Midlands, and much of northern England. Additionally, two yellow rain alerts are in place for certain Scottish regions from Wednesday 3 p.m. until midnight.
Tuesday evening saw Storm Agnes rapidly gathering momentum over the Atlantic, with predictions indicating potential wind speeds of up to 75mph. These gusty conditions are especially concerning for coastal regions around the Irish Sea.
Tom Morgan, a meteorologist with the Met Office, communicated to the PA news agency, stressing the anticipated strong winds and high waves. He pinpointed areas like Northern Ireland, north-west England, west Wales, and south-west Scotland as high-risk zones, especially on Wednesday afternoon and evening.
Morgan further stated, “With the surge in winds, significant wave heights are also anticipated. Coastal areas could experience flooding as waves crash onto shores and roads.”
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) also highlighted the threats along the coasts, urging the public to maintain a safe distance from both water bodies and cliff edges.
Sam Hughes, RNLI’s water safety partner, offered a stern reminder: “Safety should always be the priority. If you observe someone in distress in the water, immediately dial 999 or 112 and alert the Coastguard. If available, provide them with a floating object but refrain from entering the water; it might endanger you too.”
Likely disruptions include halted ferry services across the Irish Sea, potential power outages, bridge closures, and minor damages to infrastructure.
Compared to the previous storm, Storm Betty, Storm Agnes is expected to impact broader areas. However, extensive and long-lasting travel disturbances aren’t anticipated.
The post-storm scenario appears brighter, with Thursday ushering in milder weather for most of the UK. The ensuing wet and windy conditions are likely to recede by the week’s end, paving the way for a sunnier weekend.