The UK braces itself for the arrival of Storm Isha, anticipated to bring winds reaching up to 80mph (128km/h) and posing a potential risk to life.
Amber weather warnings for high winds cover extensive regions across England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland, beginning at 18:00 GMT. Additionally, yellow rain warnings are in effect for most areas.
Storm Isha marks the ninth named storm to impact the UK since September, a phenomenon deemed relatively rare by the Met Office, as it issues warnings for the entire country.
The storm's peak is expected on Sunday night and into Monday morning, coinciding with three amber warnings from the Met Office. The initial warning encompasses parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales, northern England, and south-west England from 18:00 on Sunday to 09:00 on Monday. Subsequently, a separate amber wind warning covers more of Scotland, commencing three hours later and expiring on Monday morning. Lastly, a warning for parts of Kent, East Sussex, and West Sussex starts at midnight on Monday and concludes at 09:00.
Anticipating power cuts, potential disruptions to mobile phone signals, road and bridge closures, as well as delays and cancellations in rail and bus services, the Met Office emphasizes the risk to life in coastal areas from large waves and debris being blown inland.
In addition to the amber warnings, yellow weather warnings for rain and wind are in effect. Rain warnings for parts of northern England, parts of Wales, and Scotland extend into Monday, while a wind warning spans all four UK nations from 12:00 on Sunday to 12:00 on Monday.
East Midlands Railway foresees "significant disruption," advising passengers of potential delays and alterations. Police Scotland urges people to avoid unnecessary travel.
The Energy Networks Association prepares for possible damage to homes and vital infrastructure, emphasizing the heightened risk associated with amber warnings.
The Met Office forecasts heavy rain leading to potential flooding. The Environment Agency in England has issued eight flood warnings and 52 flood alerts as of Saturday evening.
After a period of freezing temperatures and snow in some regions, higher temperatures are expected over the weekend. However, the Met Office warns that the impact of high winds may make it feel less warm than anticipated.
Meteorologist Alex Burkill notes that while temperatures could reach 12-13°C, factors such as strong winds, rain, and cloud cover might mitigate the perceived warmth.
Storm Isha follows Storm Henk, which struck earlier in the month, causing flooding and disruptions. Naming storms aids in tracking their progress through various media channels, facilitating public awareness and preparedness. Photo by Mike Pennington, Wikimedia commons.