UK (Parliament Politic Magazine) – Storm Antoni, the primary storm of the season as named by the Met Office, has made landfall in the UK. Forecasters are cautioning that the powerful winds may pose a threat to life due to flying debris.
The strongest gust of wind was recorded at Berry Head in South Devon, reaching a staggering 78 mph. This was closely followed by Cardinham in Cornwall, where winds reached 56mph. The Met Office has stated that these figures are provisionally the highest wind gusts ever recorded for August in these areas.
Warning Has Been Issued For Regions In South West England
An amber warning has been issued for regions in south-west England and south-west Wales, where potentially damaging gusts of wind are expected until 7pm. Additionally, a yellow warning has been issued for southern parts of the UK until 8pm, highlighting the occurrence of unseasonably windy weather. Furthermore, there is a warning for unseasonably wet conditions.
As Storm Antoni continues to wreak havoc across the country, it is crucial for individuals to exercise caution and remain vigilant to ensure their safety. According to workplace meteorologist Simon Partridge, a staggering 43mm of rain poured down in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, accounting for almost half of the average rainfall in August.
Fallen Trees Obstructing The Tracks
In addition, Nice Western Railway issued a warning to passengers, advising against traveling between Exeter and Penzance due to the significant number of fallen trees obstructing the tracks. Moreover, numerous roads in Devon and Cornwall were also blocked as a result of the adverse weather conditions.
“The rain continues to persist at the moment, with a significant amount of thunder and rain, particularly in northern England and East Anglia,” Partridge added.
“There has been localized flooding in some areas. The storm is expected to clear by tonight, and it should be mostly gone by midnight.”
According to meteorologist Tom Morgan from the Met Office, “This is highly unusual for August. The trees are fully leafed out, making them more susceptible to strong winds. Buildings, trees, and temporary structures like marquees may not be sufficient.”
Warning Of Potential Danger In Parts Of UK
He also warned of potential dangers, stating, “Beach debris could be thrown onto coastal roads, and there is a risk of dangerous tides, riptides, and power outages. Most travel disruptions will likely be caused by fallen trees and branches.”
In addition, Saturday is expected to feel unseasonably cold, with temperatures in some areas not reaching above 15C. The south coast may see highs of 19 C or 20C, according to Morgan.
Cleveland police reported that residents in Loftus and Carlin How have been evacuated, and the fire service and local authority are providing support to those affected. In Dublin, eight people were evacuated from their homes in Clontarf due to flooding.
Paul Kemp, the managing director of Brighton and Hove Delight, expressed, “We have successfully encouraged individuals to don ponchos, so it might feel a bit like Glastonbury.” The inclement weather compelled organizers of various outdoor events to cancel their plans.
The LooseFest music festival in Newcastle, where 60,000 people were set to attend, was abruptly canceled just before the gates opened due to safety concerns.
Eliot Walker, the organizer of the annual Dorset jazz festival Stompin’ On The Quomps, expressed his disappointment in having to postpone this year’s event, which was expected to draw a crowd of 10,000 people.
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Weather Conditions Expected To Be Severe
The weather conditions will be extremely severe, with strong winds and heavy rainfall. To ensure safety, he advises drivers to significantly reduce their speed and avoid exposed moorland and coastal routes until the storm passes.
In these conditions, drivers towing caravans and trailers should exercise extra caution, and those with rooftop cargo such as boxes and bikes should double-check that they are properly secured. Additionally, drivers should be vigilant for fallen trees and be prepared for any disruptions they may cause.
Despite the adverse weather warnings, the organizers of the Brighton and Hove Pride parade have stated that the celebrations will not be halted. Despite the yellow weather warnings, enthusiastic attendees gathered along the seafront to cheer on the event.
Looking ahead, temperatures are set to rise even further next week, culminating in a scorching peak of 27C or 28C on Thursday in the south-east. These highs haven’t been witnessed in the UK since June, according to the Met Office.