WEATHER/IMPACTS:
Between now and midnight on Saturday morning: There will be a real mix of autumnal weather with spells of rain and blustery winds at times, especially late on Thursday/Thursday night, although not pleasant no significant impacts are expected from this weather. There will be drier and brighter spells around too…
Saturday ALL DAY: A windy spell of weather expected across all areas, especially over hills, moors and coasts. The winds will blow in from between the south and southwest for much of the day, becoming more from between the west and southwest during Saturday evening. Around coasts, over hills and moors, the winds are forecast on average Force 7 to Gale Force 8, locally Severe Gale Force 9, or 30-40mph, with gusts 50-60mph, possibly up to 65mph. Elsewhere, especially inland away from hills and moors, the winds are expected on average 25-35mph, with gusts 40-50mph. This will lead to large coastal waves, swell and surge, especially around IoS, coasts of Cornwall, Devon, NW Somerset and Dorset.
Potential impacts are likely to be difficult driving conditions at times, especially for towed and high-sided vehicles, plus speed restrictions on bridges are possible. Other transport disruption is possible, especially to ferries and local flights. Tree debris and even a few fallen trees are possible blocking/closing minor roads, affecting power and comms too. Falling leaves too may block drainage channels, plus flying debris, may affect people out and about. The winds could also affect temporary structures like tents, marquees, trampolines, bins and wooden fences. In coastal areas there will be large waves and swell, and it must be stressed that conditions on coasts, will be dangerous at times for the public, especially at high tide on beaches, sea walls, promenades, piers etc. There may also be coastal wave overtopping and spray, which may affect low lying properties, coastal roads and railways.
For further information please goto the Met Office website www.metoffice.gov.uk