The first named storm of the season – Storm Amy – will hammer the UK on Friday and Saturday, the Met Office has confirmed. Expected to bring strong gusts and heavy rain, the Met Office has issued yellow severe weather warnings in Scotland for rain from 12pm until 11.59pm on Friday (October 3) and for wind from 6pm on Friday until 11.59pm on Saturday (October 4). A yellow warning for wind will also be in place from 4pm on Friday until 6am on Saturday for Northern Ireland.
Storm Amy is set to move to the northwest of the UK with up to 80 mph and bringing with it the possibility of damage and travel disruption into the weekend. The wet and windy weather is set to descend on Thursday, affecting Northern Ireland, Scotland and western parts of England and Wales. « Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties, » the Met Office said. It has also issued advice on how best to prepare for the storm.
The Met Office has warned that Storm Amy could cause injuries and danger to life from flying debris and large waves. It said to prepare properties and people before the storm.
« Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them. Items include: bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences, » it said. « Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary. »
It also said to prepare for power cuts – as damaging winds could blow over trees still in full leaf – in advance by gathering torches, batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
There is also a chance of transport disruption, particularly across Scotland, with the possibility of cancelled ferries and restrictions on the road and rail network. Flights from Scottish airports may also be delayed or cancelled.
« 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. »
The Met Office also urged Brits to stay up to date and be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly.
Saturday (October 4) will still be very windy, coupled with a mixture of sunny spells and showers as the main area of rain moves away to the southeast of the UK. By Sunday, Storm Amy will have moved further out in the North Sea, bringing drier conditions and lighter winds for the latter part of the weekend.
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