Storm Isha Sweeps Across Wales with Strong Winds and Heavy Rainfall
ICARO Media Group
The United Kingdom is bracing itself for the impact of Storm Isha, as Wales endures severe weather conditions with gusts of up to 90mph recorded in some areas. The Met Office has issued wind warnings across the entire country, advising people to avoid unnecessary travel due to the potential danger.
The amber wind warning covers all of Wales, while a yellow warning for rain extends over most of the region. Capel Curig, located in Snowdonia, experienced a staggering gust of 90mph, as reported by BBC weather.
The Met Office has stated that the wind warning will remain in effect from 18:00 GMT on Sunday until 06:00 on Monday. The rain warning, on the other hand, is set to last from midnight until 06:00. Residents are urged to prepare for possible power outages, structural damage to buildings, travel disruptions, as well as road and bridge closures.
Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable, with the Met Office website cautioning of the likelihood of injuries and threat to life from large waves and beach materials being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts, and properties. The public is advised to stay away from cliffs, remain vigilant of tidal surges, and avoid areas with heavy wave activity.
Natural Resources Wales has issued several flood alerts, raising concerns about falling trees and branches. Additionally, river levels are expected to rise above average levels.
Transportation services are also significantly impacted by the storm. Avanti West Coast has reported cancellations on all routes, while Great Western Railway anticipates delays until 06:00 on Monday. Transport for Wales has already canceled several services. Flights to and from Cardiff Airport, including those from Amsterdam and Edinburgh, have been canceled, with a delay of one hour for a Ryanair flight from Dublin.
As for road closures, the M48 Severn Bridge has been shut down in both directions, and speed limits have been imposed on the Britannia Bridge to Anglesey. A fallen tree has closed the B4391 Allt Goch in both directions, and viaducts over the Rivers Dee and Ceiriog have also been closed.
Meteorologist Tom Morgan from the Met Office has stated that the impact of Storm Isha will be felt by "everybody" in the country. Amber warnings have been issued, with inland areas expected to experience winds of up to 70mph, while coastal regions may face gusts of up to 80mph. This poses a potential danger to life and property, with the possibility of power outages, debris on roads due to coastal waves, and fallen trees.
Due to air traffic restrictions, National Air Traffic Services is working closely with airports and airlines to manage the disruption caused by the storm. Passengers are advised to check their flight arrangements.
The RAC has also issued a warning to drivers, urging them to reduce their speed and consider delaying their journeys if necessary.
Storm Isha marks the ninth named storm of the season in the UK. Each storm is given a name beginning with consecutive letters of the alphabet when it poses a risk to people and property.