Hurricane-strength winds nearing 100mph and significant rainfall are expected to hit the UK as the weekend approaches, according to the latest weather predictions. Following a warm end to the week with temperatures surpassing 20C, severe storms are now anticipated to disrupt the previously calm weather. The upcoming weather bomb, associated with ex-Hurricane Gabriella, is prompting the Met Office to issue warnings advising people to take necessary precautions, particularly in vulnerable areas.
Purple patches indicating extreme winds have been spotted on WXCharts weather maps, highlighting the Midlands and eastern England as the areas most likely to be affected. Wind speeds are projected to exceed 90mph, peaking near 100mph off the Norfolk coast early on Sunday morning. Yellow warnings have been issued for the Midlands, parts of southern England, and Wales, with gusts expected to reach up to 75mph in some places.
The Met Office cautions that the strong winds could lead to travel disruptions, structural damage, road closures, power outages, and potential injuries. Additionally, a separate warning for heavy rainfall has been issued for the Midlands up to Newcastle, with rainfall totals of up to 80mm expected in the worst-hit areas.
Looking ahead, the Met Office’s long-range forecast suggests continued weather disturbances as ex-Hurricane Gabrielle’s impact may influence UK weather patterns in the coming weeks. While the specific details remain uncertain, a west to east split is anticipated in the following week, with wetter conditions prevailing in western regions and temperatures likely to remain at or above average.