Storm Floris has hit the UK, bringing “unseasonably strong” winds of up to 90mph and prompting amber “danger to life” weather warnings across Scotland and parts of northern England.
The powerful weather system arrived on Monday morning, sweeping heavy rain and gale-force winds across the northern regions. The Met Office has warned that the most severe conditions are expected this afternoon and evening, particularly in exposed areas of Scotland.
An amber wind warning is in place for much of Scotland until 10pm, as the storm tracks eastwards across the country. A separate yellow warning covers northern England and Northern Ireland, highlighting the risk of widespread disruption.
Network Rail Scotland has urged people to reconsider travel plans, advising those living near railway lines to secure outdoor items such as garden furniture, sheds, and trampolines to prevent debris from obstructing tracks. Train operator LNER has also issued alerts, warning passengers to expect delays and cancellations throughout the day.
“We’re anticipating heavy rain and high winds to cause significant disruption to services,” LNER said in a statement.
The Met Office has cautioned residents to secure bins, outdoor equipment, and check fences for stability ahead of the storm’s peak. Dangerous waves and flying beach debris may pose additional hazards along sea fronts.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Dan Suri said: “Scotland will experience gusts between 50-70mph, with some exposed coastal areas facing winds over 80mph. The strongest gusts will hit western coasts by late morning, spreading to northeastern areas by late afternoon.”
Across inland areas within the wider yellow warning zone, winds are expected to reach 40-50mph, with gusts of up to 70mph on elevated terrain and coastal stretches.
Heavy rain is also forecast, contributing to the risk of transport disruption. The Met Office has warned of potential delays and cancellations across road, rail, air, and ferry services.
Matthew Lehnert, another Met Office Chief Meteorologist, added: “There is a small chance that some locations could record gusts as high as 85mph.”
Storm Floris marks the sixth named storm of the 2024/2025 storm season, following Storm Éowyn in January. While named storms are typically associated with autumn and winter, summer storms are not unusual.
Rod Dennis from the RAC breakdown service has urged motorists to exercise caution, especially in northern and western areas. “Drivers towing trailers or caravans, and those with roof boxes, should double-check their loads are secured,” he said. He also advised drivers to delay travel if necessary and avoid exposed routes in highland and coastal regions. Photo by Sue Adair, Wikimedia commons.