UK weather: ‘Storm Agnes’ forecast to bring heavy rain and winds up to 80mph

The Met Office have warned that strong winds and heavy rain are set to batter the UK as Agnes, the first named storm of the season, sweeps across Britain on Wednesday and Thursday.

A danger to life warning has been issued by the Met Office for Wednesday and Thursday, as they warn of up to 80mph winds in some areas of the UK.

Storm Agnes follows a week of heavy downpours in parts of the UK. Britain was hit by the remnants of two hurricanes, Lee and Nigel, dumping large amounts of rain that led to flooding in London and other parts of the country.

The Met Office chief meteorologist Steve Ramsdale said: “While the precise track and depth of Storm Agnes is still being determined, there’s a high likelihood of wind gusts around 50 to 60mph for some inland areas. Exposed coastal areas could see gusts of 65-75mph with a small chance of a few places seeing around 80mph.

“As well as some very strong winds for many, Storm Agnes will also bring some heavy rain, with the highest totals more likely in Scotland, northern England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Around 60mm of rain is possible in a few places over high ground in Scotland.”

An Indian Summer with highs of 24C is set to hit the UK after Storm Agnes.

Warm temperatures are set to hit parts of the UK on Saturday until the following Tuesday, according to experts.

British Weather Services’ senior meteorological consultant Jim Dale told the Mirror: “A taste of an Indian summer is currently on the cards in the aftermath of the ‘offspring’ of the ex-hurricane Nigel [Storm Agnes], and will last from Saturday to the following Tuesday. It’ll mainly cover South-East England, with 23 or 24C possible at the upper limits.

“Prior to that warmth, the Atlantic storm is forming and will move in from the Southwest, crossing northern parts of the UK on Wednesday. I first saw this potential development last week, and warned it may turn into a potent force.

“Expect 60 to 70mph gusts in the North-West, and 40 to 50mph gusts elsewhere. There will be sizeable rain too, mainly in the same areas as the highest winds, with more than 25mm expected in places. As ever we watch and wait!”

The Met Office has given 13 UK regions an official weather warning as Storm Anges approaches on Wednesday.

The 13 regions are listed below:

SW Scotland, Lothian Borders

Torrential downpours during an ‘insane’ thunderstorm led to flash flooding as roads in parts of the UK turned into rivers.

Dramatic footage taken in Kenton, Devon, showed rainwater streaming down roads and into a village square as residents waded through in boots.

And in Dawlish, Devon, a bridge crossing over a river was totally submerged after the huge downpour struck the southwest of England on Sunday.

Alexander Butler reports:

Torrential rain across London left streets flooded with firefighters working tirelessly throughout Wednesday evening to respond to calls.

With heavy rain only set to get worse ahead of Hurricane Nigel, the Met Office has warned of potential flooding and the possibility of interruption to power supplies.

The London Fire Brigade received “numerous calls” over flooding as dramatic footage showed roads turning into rivers, with crews “working as quickly and as safely as they can” to provide assistance.

Early cloud soon clearing from southeast England, then mostly dry with sunny spells and lighter winds across southern and central areas. However, windy with scattered showers further north, some heavy.

Sunshine and showers on Tuesday, the showers heavy and blustery in places. Wednesday could see some disruption due to heavy rain and very strong winds. Gradually improving on Thursday.

A yellow warning has been put in place across the majority of the UK from 10am on Wednesday until 7am on Thursday, spanning from the southwest of England, across to Northern Ireland and up to Inverness.

Gale force winds across swathes of the country could result in travel disruption, damage to buildings and even power cuts.

Drivers have been issued advice ahead of Storm Agnes.

The AA warned drivers to stay safe this week as Storm Agnes brings winds of up to 80mph.

Nick Powell, AA patrol of the year, said: “Many places across the UK are likely to see strong winds this week and it’s very likely trees and debris will be littering the roads. Drivers should be very cautious, especially in rural or woody areas.

“If you see twigs or small branches on the road it could be a sign that a tree has fallen just around the bend, so pay extra attention to the path up ahead.

“As always in windy weather, leave plenty of space behind other vehicles and adjust your speed to suit the conditions, especially when crossing bridges or passing high-sided vehicles. Those on two wheels are especially vulnerable to strong winds, so you should pass these with care.”

“Make sure you bring essentials with you on your journey, even if it is only short, such as warm layers, food and drink and a fully charged mobile phone. Downloading the free what3words app will allow users to accurately report the location of fallen trees or other items blocking the road.”