Storm Darragh Brings Severe Weather Warnings: UK Braces for 90mph Winds and Travel Chaos
December 4, 2024
A yellow warning is currently in effect, impacting large areas including Northern Ireland, parts of Scotland, north Wales, and northern England, from December 4 to December 6, 2024.
On December 7, a rare red weather warning is expected to be issued, forecasting gusts of up to 90mph in parts of Wales and the South West of England.
The UK is bracing for severe weather as Storm Darragh approaches, bringing heavy rain and damaging winds, with an amber warning issued for certain regions.
The severe weather is attributed to low-pressure systems directed towards Britain by a fast-moving jet stream, currently exhibiting speeds exceeding 240mph.
The storm has already caused disruptions, including reports of a mini tornado in Clayton, North Staffordshire, which damaged properties on December 5.
Flooding has disrupted rail services, particularly closing the line between Stockport and Navigation Road, leading to widespread travel delays.
As conditions worsen, three flood warnings are currently in place, with more expected, particularly along the River Irwell in Lancashire.
Motorists are advised to prepare for hazardous driving conditions, ensuring their vehicles are in good condition and carrying essentials like warm clothing and food.
Travel chaos is anticipated, especially for football fans, as severe weather impacts train services nationally, affecting routes from Plymouth to Liverpool and Manchester.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items and stay indoors as much as possible during the storm to avoid injury from falling debris.
Following the storm, conditions are expected to settle by December 10, with only light showers forecasted in the Southeast, although below-average temperatures will persist.
Forecasters predict significant snowfall, potentially over 10 centimeters, from December 7, impacting Scotland and extending into the southeast of England.
Summary based on 21 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Dec 5, 2024
UK weather: Storm Darragh to bring 80mph gusts as amber wind warning issued
The Independent • Dec 5, 2024
Storm Darragh: Met Office issues danger to life warning as UK set to be battered by 80mph winds
The Independent • Dec 5, 2024
Storm Darragh latest: UK braces for 80mph winds and heavy rain as Met Office issues amber weather warning
The Independent • Dec 6, 2024
Storm Darragh map: When and where UK will be hit by 80mph winds and rain after Met Office weather warning