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Spotted UK

Local News Reports

Storm Pia Met Office weather warning update as 80mph winds to hit

BySpotted UK

Dec 20, 2023

Strong winds of up to 80mph could hit the UK this week, as the Met Office has updated a yellow weather warning.

The warning, which covers the majority of the country, including Merseyside, is in place from midnight to 9pm Thursday, December 21. The Met Office has warned that the gusts could cause travel disruption ahead of Christmas.

Some loss of power, delays to public transport and large waves on coastal routes are also expected. The storm is yet to be named by the Met Office but authorities in Denmark have become so concerned about the low pressure sweeping east, they've called it Storm Pia.

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The Met Office's website adds: "The system has been named Storm Pia by the Danish Met Institute, as impacts are expected to be greater here." Forecasters report that overnight Wednesday into Thursday, strong west to northwesterly winds are likely to develop across a large swathe of the country.

Winds of 45-55 mph gusts are expected here in the north west and Merseyside, with stronger winds possibly reaching 80mph predicted for far north and northeast of Scotland, including the Northern Isles.

The forecast for Liverpool states that it will be primarily windy until Friday, with winds perhaps touching gale strengths on the coast. It will be a mild night however showery rain is likely on Wednesday evening into Thursday.

The outlook for Friday to Sunday and heading into Christmas for Merseyside reads: "Mild with temperatures staying above average. Rain and drizzle at times, particularly persistent on west facing hills, however some drier spells are likely too. Windy with gales possible at times."

A spokesperson for the Met Office said: "Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary. People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance.

"It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items. If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea.

"Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area."

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