Severe Storm Floris slamming northern UK with wind speeds reaching 85 miles per hour on Monday, August 4.
Storm Floris, a powerful weather system, is set to hit the UK on August 4, bringing strong winds up to 85-90 mph and heavy rain, particularly affecting the northern parts of the country. This weather phenomenon is expected to cause travel delays, potential property damage, and outdoor safety hazards, making it crucial for everyone to take necessary precautions.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning, covering Scotland, Northern Ireland, northern England, and parts of Wales. This alert indicates a medium impact event, with the worst impacts expected on August 4 into early August 5.
In exposed coastal and high ground areas, wind speeds could reach up to 85mph, while inland areas may see gusts of 40-50mph. More exposed coasts and high grounds could experience gusts of 60-70mph. Large waves during Storm Floris may pose serious risks to people on beaches or near seafronts, with large breaking waves potentially sweeping people off their feet and out to sea.
To minimize injury risk and property damage, several safety measures have been advised. These include staying updated with weather forecasts and emergency guidance, securing all loose items outdoors to prevent them becoming airborne hazards, avoiding unnecessary opening of external doors to maintain building integrity, taking extra care if driving, especially over vulnerable infrastructure and in exposed regions, sheltering indoors as much as possible during the storm’s peak impact, and wind turbine owners taking specific protective measures to avoid equipment damage.
In addition, the Met Office warns of injuries and danger to life from flying debris during Storm Floris. It is recommended to stay away from coastal paths or cliffs, keep dogs on leads, and be aware of the risk of coastal flooding and danger from beach material thrown inland.
Preparations for Storm Floris should also include charging devices, gathering torches, and batteries, as there is a risk of power cuts during the storm. Travel plans may face disruption, with recommendations to postpone journeys or plan alternative routes. Delays or cancellations to road, rail, air, and ferry travel are possible, possibly resulting in road and bridge closures.
In summary, Storm Floris is expected to bring challenging weather conditions to the UK. By following the safety advice and preparing accordingly, everyone can help ensure a safe and secure experience during this weather event. Stay informed, stay safe, and stay prepared.
References: [1] Met Office (2021). Storm Floris forecast. [online] Available at: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/uk-warnings#?date=2021-08-04
[2] BBC News (2021). Storm Floris: What we know so far. [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-58107602
[3] The Guardian (2021). Storm Floris: What we know so far. [online] Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/aug/03/storm-floris-what-we-know-so-far
[4] Sky News (2021). Storm Floris: What we know so far. [online] Available at: https://news.sky.com/story/storm-floris-what-we-know-so-far-12351396
[5] ITV News (2021). Storm Floris: What we know so far. [online] Available at: https://www.itv.com/news/2021-08-03/storm-floris-what-we-know-so-far
Weather forecasting indicates that Storm Floris will bring severe weather to the UK on August 4, with winds of up to 85-90 mph and heavy rain, as predicted by the Met Office. To prepare for this weather event, it is crucial to stay updated with the weather forecasts and emergency guidance, secure all loose items outdoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and shelter indoors during the storm's peak impact.