Amber warning for South West England

Between 03:00 (UTC) on Sat 7 Dec 2024 and 21:00 (UTC) on Sat 7 Dec 2024

It lists the following areas in the vulnerability zone. We can’t, at present, understand how Bristol, for example, is spared by the storm, especially when you look at the map issued – copied below! Of course, a straight line is shown as a boundary, whether the storm adheres to that is a different thing!

South West England

Bath and North East Somerset
Cornwal

Devon
Dorset

Isles of Scilly
North Somerset
Plymouth

Somerset
Torbay

In light of this you may wish to be proactive and ensure all is brought in/tied down, etc. tomorrow in anticipation, and that an inspection regime is in place in case there are problems that can be remedied, before return on Monday.

Don’t forget that a good look at your trees, if you have them, is necessary, just in case there’s damage of some sort that may not have caused it to fall and be obvious, but may just be waiting for that next gust when you are back in to cause a problem.

If you have lettings, you’ll probably wish to have an explicit conversation with them too, so they are clear on things and expectations of them.

The Met office advice says:

There is a good chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
Probably some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
Longer journey times and cancellations likely, as road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected
Flying debris is likely and could lead to Injuries or danger to life
Some roads and bridges likely to close, with falling trees an additional hazard
Injuries and danger to life is likely from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties.

A period of very strong northerly or northwesterly winds is likely to develop during Saturday as Storm Darragh moves from west to east. Gusts of 70 to 80 mph are likely around exposed coasts and headlands, where some very large waves are likely, whilst gusts of 60 to 70 mph are likely inland. The strongest winds will ease from the west through the afternoon.

Driving in these conditions can be dangerous, for yourself and other road users. If you must drive, you can do this more safely by taking the following actions; drive slowly to minimise the impact of wind gusts, be aware of high sided vehicles/caravans on more exposed roads and be cautious when overtaking, and give cyclists, motorcyclists, lorries, and buses more room than usual.

Being outside in high winds makes you more vulnerable to injury. Stay indoors as much as possible. If you do go out, try not to walk, or shelter, close to buildings and trees. In advance of high winds, check for loose items outside your home and secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences.

If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea. Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items. Stay up to date with the weather forecast for your area and follow advice from emergency services and local authorities.