Brits urged to protect 5 things as Met Office issues yellow wind warnings

The Met Office has issued a series of yellow weather warnings and an amber wind warning as Storm Darragh sweeps across the UK, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and potential disruption over the weekend.

Gusts of up to 80mph are expected along the west coast of Britain and Northern Ireland, with inland areas bracing for speeds of up to 70mph.

An amber wind warning is in place for Saturday from 3am to 9pm, covering areas from South Ayrshire, Scotland, to Cornwall.

The Met Office has warned of flying debris, potential road and bridge closures, power cuts, and large waves posing a risk to life.

Met Office Chief Forecaster Jason Kelly said: “Storm Darragh is an evolving system and will bring several hazards, including wind gusts of up to 70-80mph around western coasts, especially from Devon and Cornwall to southwest Scotland and Northern Ireland.

“Wind speeds in inland areas will be slightly reduced with maximum gusts expected to reach 60-70mph.”

With all of that in mind, the Met Office has also urged people to take steps to secure their property and prevent injury to others.

Simple precautions can help limit damage as the storm intensifies.

According to the Met Office, key items to secure include:

Bins – Move them to a sheltered location to prevent them from being blown away.
Plant pots – Bring them indoors or secure them outside.
Garden furniture – Store items like chairs and tables indoors or tie them down.
Trampolines – Turn them upside down or anchor them with tent pegs.
Sheds – Ensure doors are locked and secured.

The Met Office also advises staying indoors as much as possible during the storm.

For those who must go out, avoid walking near buildings or trees, as high winds can bring down loose objects or branches.

With conditions likely to change rapidly, the public is encouraged to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts.

A yellow weather warning for wind and rain is in place for much of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland until 3am tomorrow. Another yellow warning will follow on Saturday, bringing up to 70mm of rain and 80mph winds to England and Wales from 3pm to 6am on Sunday.