Britain braces for travel hell as Storm Agnes approaches
Britain braces for travel hell as Storm Agnes approaches: Warning to drivers and airport passengers as map shows where 80mph winds could batter UK - with fears of falling trees and tiles blown from roofs
- Met Office has issued yellow warnings of strong gales and torrential downpours
Britain is bracing for fresh travel hell tomorrow with Storm Agnes expected to bring torrential downpours and gusts of up to 80mph winds.
The Met Office[2] has issued yellow warnings of strong gales and a deluge of rain likely to cause mayhem on the roads, as well as hit rail, air and ferry services.
The country's first storm of the season - which was officially named yesterday - could bring 80mph winds, 2.4in (60mm) of rain and potential floods amid warnings of a 'danger to life'.
Motorists are being warned to stay vigilant for falling trees, tiles blown from roofs and other flying debris, while Birmingham[3] Airport told passengers it is 'preparing' for the wet weather.
The yellow weather warning is in place from 10am on Wednesday until 7am on Thursday for the whole country apart from southern England and northern Scotland.
The Met Office has issued a warning from 10am on Wednesday until 7am Thursday for the whole country apart from southern England and northern Scotland
There is also a yellow rain warning in place from 9pm on Wednesday to 6am on Thursday in southern Scotland.
Forecasters have warned of 'significantly disruptive' wind gusts of 50 to 60mph inland and 65 to 80mph on coasts, and said some roads and bridges could close. Power cuts are also possible while railways, roads and airports could face disruption.
Birmingham Airport has issued advice to travellers ahead of tomorrow's storm.
A spokesperson for the airport told BirminghamLive[4]: 'We are prepared for these weather conditions and will be operating in line with our usual extreme weather procedures.'
Agnes the result of a tropical storm across the east coast of the US causing a jet stream to rumble across the Atlantic.
The storm could bring a fortnight’s worth of rain in nine hours and gusts of up to 80mph to parts of Scotland.
Meanwhile today will see heavy showers quickly moving northeast across England and Wales while a band of rain, thunder and gusty wind will hit Northern Ireland and western Scotland.
Met Office meteorologist Dan Stroud said: ‘It’s going to be wet everywhere in Scotland but there will be more significant rain over higher ground in the south west and just north of the Central Belt.
‘People need to be wary and plan their trips and leave extra time.’
It comes just days after Hurricane Nigel brought torrential rain across the country, causing travel mayhem and flooding in some areas.
Nick Powell, AA patrol of the year, warned: 'Many places across the UK are likely to see strong winds this week and it's very likely trees and debris will be littering the roads.
The Met Office has issued yellow warnings of strong gales and a deluge of rain likely to cause mayhem on the roads, as well as hit rail, air and ferry services (Stock image used)
Bus services are likely to be affected by rain on Wednesday the Met said (Stock image used)
'Drivers should be very cautious, especially in rural or woody areas. If you see twigs or small branches on the road it could be a sign that a tree has fallen just around the bend, so pay extra attention to the path up ahead.
'As always in windy weather, leave plenty of space behind other vehicles and adjust your speed to suit the conditions, especially when crossing bridges or passing high-sided vehicles.
'Those on two wheels are especially vulnerable tostrong winds, so you should pass these with care.
'There may be delays so make sure you bring essentials with you on your journey, even if it is only short, such as warm layers, food and drink and a fully charged mobile phone.
'Downloading the free what3words app will allow users to accurately report the location of fallen trees or other items blocking the road.
Birmingham Airport (pictured) has issued advice to travellers ahead of tomorrow's storm
RAC spokesman Rod Dennis told MailOnline: 'The Met Office's latest forecast suggests drivers will feel some short but sharp effects of Storm Agnes later on Wednesday and into Thursday.
'Gusty winds are likely to be the biggest feature, so avoiding exposed coastal and upland routes is a good idea for anyone less confident driving in these sorts of conditions.
'Driving more slowly with both hands on the steering wheel, and taking particular care when overtaking high-sided vehicles to avoid being buffeted, is a must.
'Anyone towing or carrying loads on the roof should also ensure they're properly secured before setting out.'
References
- ^ Dan Woodland (www.dailymail.co.uk)
- ^ Met Office (www.dailymail.co.uk)
- ^ Birmingham (www.dailymail.co.uk)
- ^ BirminghamLive (www.birminghammail.co.uk)