Storm Debi hits the UK: Weather warnings in place with heavy rain and 80mph winds on the way

13 November 2023, 05:52

By Kieran Kelly

@kellyjourno

A 'danger to life' weather warning will come into effect in the UK this morning as Storm Debi brings heavy rain and 80mph winds.

The Met Office has issued 46 flood alerts for areas across the UK as Storm Debi - the fourth named storm of the season - is set to sweep the nation with strong winds.

A yellow weather warning is already in place covering the north east and north west, as well as parts of Wales, and will run until 6pm this evening.

A 'danger to life' amber weather warning in the north west will come into place from 10am, with flying debris potentially leading to injuries, the Met Office said.

The Environment Agency has also issued 46 flood alerts for the UK, meaning flooding is possible, and five flood warnings, meaning flooding is likely.

The Met Office said in a statement: "Storm Debi is expected to develop and move across Ireland and northern England on Monday. Whilst there is still some uncertainty in the exact track and depth of this low, there is a chance of very strong westerly winds developing along Irish Sea coasts of Wales and northwest England on Monday morning before extending inland during day, slowly easing later.

"There is a chance of 60-65 mph gusts developing inland and 70-80 mph around coasts, and over some higher ground, such as the Pennines."

It comes as chilly weather has hit the UK in recent weeks, as temperatures have fallen below 0C in some parts of the country.

Read more: Exact date snow storm forecast as temperatures set to drop to -6C

Read more: November could be 'wettest on record' as washout Autumn continues

The Met forecast added: “Injuries and danger to life from flying debris are possible. Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, could happen. Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible.

"Some roads and bridges may close. Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage. Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties."

It comes weeks after Storm Ciaran battered Britain.

The long-range forecast from the Met Office says: “This period is likely to remain generally unsettled with spells of wet and windy weather crossing most areas, but especially southern and western parts of the UK - and it could be very windy at first.

“Towards the end of next week or the start of next weekend, there are signs that a brief quieter interlude could develop across many areas, as a ridge of high pressure may build from the south. It probably won't last long however, with the changeable conditions likely to return by the following week, with further bands of rain and showers for all.

“Southern and eastern areas could perhaps see the best of any drier and brighter interludes between times, and on the whole, temperatures will be around, or a little above normal, for November.”