Storm Floris: Ferocious Winds Set to Slam Northern UK as Summer Storm Arrives Early
Storm Floris is on its way, and it’s coming in with force. The Met Office has warned of “unseasonably strong winds” set to whip across parts of the UK starting Monday, an unusual sight for early August.
Forecasters have issued a yellow weather warning for wind, covering large swathes of northern Britain. The warning kicks in from 6am Monday until 6am Tuesday, putting millions on alert.
“This isn’t the kind of weather we typically expect during the school holidays,” said one Met Office spokesperson. But as the sixth named storm of the 2024-25 season, Floris isn’t here to follow the rules.
“Unusually windy weather. There remains some uncertainty in the depth and track of Floris,” the Met Office warned.
#StormFloris has been named
It is forecast to bring unseasonably strong winds to the UK on Monday along with heavy rain
Stay #WeatherAware ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/rFkXe1AFfT
— Met Office (@metoffice) August 1, 2025
Scotland appears to be in the firing line. Coastal areas and higher ground there could be lashed with gusts reaching 85mph.
Inland areas can expect winds between 40 to 50mph, while exposed locations, especially in Northern Ireland, northern England, and parts of Wales, may see gusts up to 70mph.
And it won’t just be the wind that causes trouble. Torrential rain is likely to add to the chaos. Fallen trees, blocked roads, and cancelled services may quickly become the norm.
The Met Office warned of more than just travel issues: “Flying debris may cause injuries and pose a danger to life… Large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads, and properties.”
Expect potential power outages, damaged roofs, and delays across road, rail, ferry, and air routes. Bridges in affected areas may shut, too.
And while we’re in peak summer break mode, this storm doesn’t care. It’s bringing autumn-level chaos to mid-summer getaways.
RAC’s Rod Dennis had this to say: “This unseasonable bout of stormy weather will mean drivers in the north and west of the UK need to take extra care at the start of next week.”
“It’s the height of the holiday season, so those towing trailers and caravans, as well as those with roof and tent boxes, must ensure their loads are properly secured.”
He urged drivers to slow down, delay journeys if possible, and avoid high-risk routes, especially along the coast or through the hills.
While named storms typically sweep through during the darker months, the Met Office noted that summer storms aren’t unheard of, just rare.
Before Floris arrives, the weekend will offer a mix of sunshine and showers, providing one last breath of calm before the gusts tear through.
Brace yourselves. Summer’s taking a wild turn.
