Millions of Britons were urged to cancel travel plans and stay indoors on Friday to avoid high winds and flying debris, as the second major storm this week triggered a rare ‘red’ weather warning in southern England.
The UK Weather Forecast Office said Storm Younis could cause severe damage and dangerous conditions, with gusts of more than 90mph in highly exposed coastal areas.
The Met Office issued a ‘red’ warning for parts of the south-west of England between 7am and 12pm, and south-east England and London between 10am and 3pm, indicating a danger to life.
A lower-level yellow warning for gusts of up to 80mph will cover the whole of England from 5am to 9pm.
The Met Office’s Paul Gundersen said: “Storm Eunice will bring damaging gusts following Wednesday’s storm Dudley, which affected many people, likely to hit southern and central England for years. One of the most impactful storms.” Chief Meteorologist. “Red warning areas indicate a significant threat to life as extremely strong winds can damage buildings and flying debris.”
The government is expected to hold a meeting of its COBRA emergency committee later on Friday to discuss the storm.
The Environment Agency has issued 10 severe flood warnings, another indicator of life-threatening weather conditions.
Some tourist attractions in the UK, including the London Eye, Legoland and Warwick Castle, will be temporarily closed.
“I urge all Londoners to stay at home, take no risks and do not travel unless absolutely necessary,” Mayor Sadiq Khan said.
Train operators across the UK are also urging passengers to avoid travelling on Friday.
British Airways has warned of delays at London’s Heathrow Airport as winds reduce the speed at which planes are allowed to land.
“High winds and bad weather may cause last-minute delays, but we will do everything in our power to minimise the disruption,” the airline said.
Bridges and viaducts should be avoided as high-sided vehicles and other “vulnerable” vehicles such as caravans and motorcycles can be blown over, the National Highway Administration said.
Jeremy Phillips, head of road safety at the National Highway Administration, said anyone traveling should “plan their trip and take extra care to allow more time for your trip.”
“If strong winds persist, we may have to close the bridge for a while, so please heed the closure warning and follow the detours posted,” he added.
Complete News Source : Hindustan Times
