What we know about Storm Gerrit wind, rain and snow warnings

Spray and high winds of up to 70mph are likely on Wednesday as Storm Gerrit crosses the UK, and motorists have been advised to avoid travelling if they can. (PA)

Thousands were left without power and major transport routes were closed on Wednesday morning as Storm Gerrit hit the UK^[1].

The Severn Bridge was closed to motorists and all Cross Country rail lines between Edinburgh and Newcastle were closed due to flooding.

Gerrit brought heavy rain and gusts of up to 70mph, with wintry hazards including power cuts and brief heavy snowfall also predicted throughout the day. Only the central section of the country was not covered by a yellow weather warning issued by the Met Office, who warned of delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport. Many homes in Scotland and some in the north east of England were left without power, the Energy Networks Association (ENA) said.

Met Office Chief Meteorologist Frank Saunders said: “Storm Gerrit will run towards western UK on Wednesday and bring with it potential impacts for much of the UK. Winds across southern coastal areas of England will be strong, possibly peaking around 70 mph on exposed coastlines, but more widely around 50-60 mph within the warning area.”

Saunders said rain would be an additional hazard from Storm Gerrit, and that northern areas should prepare for up to 20cm of snow. This, combined with very strong winds, would lead to difficult travel conditions, he said. And added that “at lower levels a combination of heavy rain and very strong winds will dominate”.

Storm Gerrit weather warnings

Multiple yellow weather warnings for strong winds, heavy rain and periods of snow have been issued by the Met Office for 27 and 28 December.

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Wednesday is forecast to be the worst-affected day, with Storm Gerrit’s strong winds due to hit a stretch of the south coast which could lead to transport disruption, with power cuts possible.

Heavy rain is also expected in Wales and across central and north-western England which could lead to flooding. and Northern Ireland will also see wind and rain, with a yellow warning for both issued until 10am on Wednesday.

Only the central section of the UK does not have a weather warning in place

A yellow weather warning is in place across most of the UK for Wednesday, as storm Gerrit brings high winds and risks of flooding and power cuts. (Met Office)

Warnings to drivers

Drivers have been urged to exercise caution when planning journeys on Wednesday as strong winds and heavy rain could lead to flooding and power cuts in some areas.

Advice from the Met Office for people who feel they have to take to the roads on Wednesday includes choosing main roads, where you are less likely to be exposed to fallen branches and debris and flooding.

It says to use dipped headlights if visibility is seriously reduced, and to always grip the steering wheel with both hands, especially when overtaking, because “gusts of wind can unsettle vehicles”.

The advice adds: “Keep an eye out for gaps between trees, buildings or bridges over a river or railway – these are some of the places you are more likely to be exposed to side winds. Ensure that you maintain enough room either side of your vehicle so you can account for it being blown sideways.

“Roads will be more slippery than usual in wet weather – be sure to give yourself more time to react when approaching a hazard. Increase your following gap to at least four seconds from the moving traffic in front.”

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Driving tips during a storm

The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for much of the UK as Storm Gerrit takes hold, and has advised against all but essential journeys on one of the busiest travelling days of the year.

As part of the warning, motorists are being told to expect difficult driving conditions as well as possible power cuts and flooded roads.

If the storm brings lightning, drivers should take extra care. Here is the Met Office advise when driving during a thunderstorm:

1. Wind up windows and stay inside your car.

2. Avoid soft-top convertibles, with their fabric roofs – they are most at risk and could catch fire if struck by lightning

3. Be aware that current can travel through other parts of many modern cars, including GPS and radio systems. Cars with metal interior handles, foot pedals and steering wheels can also carry current

4. Cars can be damaged both internally and externally by lightning strikes

5. Give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians more room than usual.

6. Keep your speed down.

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References

1. ^{^} Storm Gerrit hit the UK (uk.news.yahoo.com)