Britain is preparing for disorder as Storm Benjamin brings winds exceeding 70mph and heavy rain, leading to warnings of flooding, power outages, and travel disruptions across various regions.
The Met Office has issued multiple yellow weather alerts as the storm approaches the UK, bringing strong gusts and intense downpours starting early on Thursday, October 23. Rain warnings cover southern and eastern areas, while wind alerts are in place for eastern England, southwest England, and parts of Wales.
Experts predict worsening conditions throughout the morning, with possibilities of building damage, debris falling, and travel interruptions.
Data from WXCharts indicates that winds will strengthen from 6am on Thursday, with powerful gusts expected from the English Channel. Kent could experience speeds reaching 80mph, while Lincolnshire may see gusts up to 75mph.
The early hours of the morning are anticipated to bring the most severe gusts of the day. Norwich, Kent, and Lincolnshire are expected to face winds close to 80mph. Inland areas like Southampton, Oxford, and Swindon will also be affected by strong gusts and heavy rain during the morning rush.
The southwest and Wales are likely to face particularly strong gusts, especially in exposed coastal regions. Conversely, northern areas will experience slightly milder winds but a noticeable drop in temperatures, particularly in Scotland.
By midday, conditions are set to deteriorate further, with winds potentially reaching almost 90mph, affecting the southern parts of the UK significantly.
Areas from Manchester southwards are forecasted to endure persistent strong winds throughout the afternoon, with little change expected by 3pm. The southern half of Britain will continue to be impacted by high gusts and ongoing rainfall in already saturated areas.
By 6pm, the same regions will remain on alert, with stronger gusts of up to 88mph moving northwards to impact Leeds, Bradford, and the Yorkshire Dales.
The final surge is predicted around 9pm, with the strongest winds returning to the southeast. Wind speeds could peak at 90mph in Norwich, Essex, Kent, and London, exposing both the southeast and northeast of England to the storm’s intensified final blow.
Chief Met Office Meteorologist Rebekah Hicks warns of potential wind gusts exceeding 70mph. Uncertainty surrounds the track and intensity of the storm, urging the public to stay updated on the latest forecasts and warnings as adjustments may occur at short notice.