- Storm Antoni Brings Unseasonably Powerful Winds to UK, Threatening Life
- Amber Warnings for Wind and Rain Issued Across UK Regions
- Potential for Disruption: Heavy Precipitation and Strong Winds Expected
The first named storm of the year hit the UK, with forecasters warning of “unseasonably” strong gusts.
Friday night’s storm, Antoni, is expected to persist into Saturday with strong winds and heavy precipitation.
Two amber wind warnings have been issued by the Met Office for west Wales and portions of southwest England.
Forecasters anticipate that Northern Ireland will experience some of the heaviest precipitation.
An amber warning for rain has been issued from 08:00 to 20:00 BST for the majority of Northern Ireland. A yellow wind warning applies to southwest England, including Plymouth, Bristol, and Bath.
Up to 65 mph winds are expected to pummelled vast parts of the British coastline, according to the Met Office.
From 11:00 to 19:00 BST, west Wales and portions of southwest England are under amber wind warnings. This includes Swansea, Carmarthenshire, and Pembrokeshire in Wales.
“Injuries and threats to life from flying debris are possible,” the Met Office warned, adding that “large waves and beach debris will be thrown onto seafronts, coastal roads, and properties.”
Met Office chief meteorologist Steve Willington predicted “potentially disruptive” weather as the storm proceeded east.
He added, “Northern Ireland is likely to experience some of the highest precipitation totals, with 40-60 mm falling in a few spots and 20-30 mm more generally.”
Persistent precipitation may also cause flooding and travel disruptions.
Rod Dennis of the RAC warned commuters to be aware of “horrific” conditions.
“The best safety advice is to significantly slow down and avoid exposed moorland and coastal routes until the storm has passed,” he advised.
“Drivers towing caravans and trailers must be especially cautious in these conditions, and those with boxes and bicycles on the roof must double-check that they are properly secured.”
