Weather warnings issued for Shropshire as storm set to hit UK
The Met Office has issued an amber warning of strong winds and a yellow warning for heavy rain for Shropshire on Monday.
The warnings for strong winds were issued by forecasters for 5am – 9pm on Monday and for heavy rain from the early hours of Monday until Midnight.
Around 20 to 40 mm of rain may fall within 6 to 9 hours, leading to localised flooding.
The storm is currently developing in the Atlantic and has the potential to bring down trees or cause structural damage, potentially causing transport disruption or power cuts with the potential for gusts of more than 80mph.
Steve Willington, Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, said: "We are talking about a storm which doesn't yet exist, so there remains some uncertainty about its possible timing, track and strength. However, several forecasts models currently suggest we will see a significant storm with exceptionally strong winds impacting parts of England and Wales.
"This is a developing situation and we'd advise people to stay up to date with our forecasts and warnings over the weekend, and be prepared to change their plans if necessary. We'll continue to work closely with authorities and emergency services to ensure they are aware of the expected conditions."
An Environment Agency spokesperson said: "Environment Agency staff teams are out working to minimise river flood risk, clearing debris from streams and unblocking culverts and will continue to closely monitor the situation. We are supporting local authorities who will respond to any reports of surface water flooding.
"Seafronts, quaysides and jetties should be avoided due to the risk of overtopping by waves. People are advised to sign up to receive free flood warnings from the Environment Agency website, check weather reports on the Met Office website and be prepared to change their travel plans."
Martin Hobbs the head of Asset Resilience at the Highways Agency: "We are working closely with the Met Office to monitor conditions ahead of the weather being forecast over the weekend. Drivers, especially those considering a trip with a caravan this weekend, are encouraged to think carefully before setting off as driving conditions are expected to be difficult on Sunday evening and Monday. If you do have to make a journey by road, be prepared, plan your journey in advance and check the latest weather conditions along your route.
"Be aware of sudden gusts of wind, and give high-sided vehicles, caravans, motorbikes and bicycles plenty of space. In the event of persistent high winds we may need to close certain bridges to traffic for a period, so please be alert for warnings of closures and follow signposted diversion routes."
Normally Atlantic storms of this type develop much further to the west of the UK and are waning in strength by the time they reach the UK and Ireland. A strong jet stream and warm air close to the UK are both contributing to the development and strength of the forecast storm.
If the storm arrives in line with current predictions, some areas could see some of their strongest winds for a number of years.
