Wales Battered by 90mph Winds as Storm Isha Hits
By James McCarthy
BBC News
Published: 21 January 2024, 15:58 GMT
Last updated: 1 hour ago
Strong winds of up to 90mph have been battering Wales as Storm Isha, the ninth named storm of the season, brings danger-to-life wind warnings to the UK.
Capel Curig, in Eryri, also known as Snowdonia, recorded gusts of 90mph, with BBC weather warning that gusts could top 100mph at the exposed site.
The Met Office has issued warnings for possible power cuts, building damage, travel disruption, and road and bridge closures. There are also risks of injuries and danger to life from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts, and properties.
The coastguard has advised people to stay away from cliffs, watch out for tidal surges, and steer clear of big waves. Natural Resources Wales has also issued flood alerts and warned of falling trees and branches, as well as higher-than-normal river levels.
Rail, sea, and air travel have been significantly affected, with cancellations, delays, and disruptions reported across the country. The M48 Severn Bridge has been closed in both directions, with speed limits in place on the Britannia Bridge to Anglesey.
The storm is expected to affect the entire country, with amber warnings in place for inland areas expecting 70mph winds and coastal regions facing gusts of 80mph. The National Air Traffic Services has implemented air traffic restrictions and advised passengers to check their flight arrangements.
Drivers are urged to cut their speed and consider delaying their journeys, with the RAC issuing warnings to that effect.
Storm Isha, like the other named storms of the season, poses a significant risk to people and property, leading to the issuance of named storm warnings beginning with consecutive letters of the alphabet.
Historically, Wales has experienced severe storms and extreme weather events, with a long history of battling the elements and facing the challenges of the country’s rugged terrain. The impact of severe weather on Wales has influenced infrastructure development and emergency response planning, with efforts continuously made to increase resilience and minimize the risks associated with extreme weather events.
Overall, the effects of Storm Isha are expected to be far-reaching, with communities across Wales and the UK bracing for the impact and taking necessary precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of residents and visitors.
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