The Met Office issues caution as Storm Pia gears up to unleash gusts of up to 80mph across portions of the UK. This imminent weather event may spell trouble for Christmas travel plans,
particularly in the northern reaches of the country.
The warning encompasses the northern half of the nation on Thursday, potentially leading to travel upheaval in the days leading up to Christmas. The Met Office has raised concerns about potential power disruptions, particularly affecting high-sided vehicles on exposed roads and coastal areas, where towering waves may lash against the shores, especially in the north and northeast of Scotland.
A yellow wind warning initially scheduled until 12 midnight has been adjusted, now concluding at 9 pm, with a revised warning impact level.
Northern Scotland is expected to face winds raging between 70mph and 80mph, reaching 65-70mph on elevated terrains. Other areas, including Scotland, Northern Ireland, North Wales, and the northern regions of England, may encounter winds reaching 45-55mph.
The agency anticipates significant travel disturbances and potential power outages as a result of these severe winds. High-sided vehicles are likely to face challenges on exposed roads, and coastal routes could experience heavy waves.
Storm Pia, designated by Danish authorities, although not projected to reach severe levels in the UK, still prompts caution and preparatory measures.
According to Stephen Dixon, a spokesperson for the Met Office, the warning spans a considerable area, indicating widespread gusts in the forecast.
Looking further ahead, the Met Office predicts showers accompanying the gusts, with additional rainfall anticipated on Friday. Mr. Dixon hinted at the possibility of Christmas Day snow, albeit confined to the far north of Scotland. He also indicated a drier afternoon in the southern UK for those planning post-Christmas dinner walks. Photo by Storm at Ashton by Thomas Nugent, Wikimedia commons.