Storm Floris: Met Office Issues Yellow Wind Warnings Across UK – Here’s What You Need to Know
Storm Floris is heading our way. And it’s not coming quietly. A fresh Met Office alert has been issued ahead of Monday, warning of strong, potentially damaging winds set to sweep across large parts of the UK, especially Scotland and northern England.
The yellow weather warning kicks in at 6am on Monday, 4 August, lasting a full 24 hours.
This is officially the sixth named storm of the 2024/25 season. And it’s shaping up to be one of the more disruptive ones so far.
While northern England, north Wales, and parts of Northern Ireland are all under the warning, it’s Scotland that’s in the firing line. Wind gusts of 60-70 mph are expected in exposed areas and on high ground. Some parts might even face short bursts of up to 85 mph.
“Across the warning area, many inland areas are likely to see gusts of 40-50mph, with 60-70mph more likely at higher elevations and around exposed coasts in Scotland.
There is a small chance that some locations here could even record gusts of 85mph,” said Matthew Lehnert, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office.
The strong winds could cause more than a rough commute. The Met Office has warned of “large waves and beach material being thrown on to sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.”
Flying debris may lead to injuries – or worse. Power cuts are a real possibility. And travel disruption is almost a given, with road, rail, ferry, and even air services potentially affected. Some bridges might close for safety.
Those living along the coasts, especially in the north and west of Scotland, are urged to prepare early. Think: loose garden furniture, bins, and anything that could take off in high winds.
The Met Office added: “There is a small chance of injuries and danger to life from flying debris. Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, could happen.”
The warning covers a wide stretch of the UK. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most affected regions:
- Scotland: Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen, Stirling, Inverness, and more
- Northern England: Newcastle, Sunderland, Leeds, York, Manchester, Cumbria
- Northern Ireland: All counties, from Antrim to Tyrone
- North Wales: Including Conwy, Gwynedd, and Anglesey
- Yorkshire & Humber: From West Yorkshire to the East Riding
Surprisingly, the East Midlands appears to be spared for now. Nottingham, for example, is forecast to see only moderate rain and gusts around 35 mph.
For a deeper breakdown on areas at risk and the full wind speed forecast, you can refer to our detailed guide on how Storm Floris will bring 85mph winds across the northern UK.
Stay updated. Check the latest forecasts. And if you’re in one of the yellow warning zones, take basic precautions now.
The Met Office recommends: “Prepare to protect your property and people from injury by checking for loose items outside your home and planning how you could secure them.”
The situation could shift, with forecasts likely to be updated over the weekend. So keep an eye on the Met Office feed – and be ready for a turbulent start to the week.
