Storm Isha, set to hit the UK this weekend, poses significant risks, including potential damage and loss of life due to high winds and heavy rainfall, the Met Office has warned.
Officially named on Friday, the storm is expected to bring gusts of up to 80mph along exposed coasts and 60mph inland from Sunday to Monday. Amber weather warnings have been issued for northern and western England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and parts of Scotland.
Coastal areas may face life-threatening conditions from large waves and debris, while widespread flooding is likely elsewhere in the UK, with yellow warnings for wind and rain.
Amber weather warnings are in effect as Storm Isha threatens power cuts and transport disruptions.The amber warnings also signal potential issues such as power outages, loss of mobile signals, road closures, and disruptions to rail and bus services. Following a dry, sunny start to the weekend, temperatures will rise, reaching highs of around 12°C on Sunday.
An Atlantic low-pressure system will bring heavy rain to northern England, with 30-50mm expected and possibly up to 100mm in hilly regions. Scotland, Wales, and north-west England should prepare for flooding and transport delays.
Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill noted that while temperatures may reach 12-13°C, the strong winds and rain will make it feel cooler. Mild conditions are anticipated for the weekend, with frost expected to be isolated. There could be overnight fog in drier, calmer areas of the south-east.
As of Friday morning, the Environment Agency had issued 12 flood warnings and 59 flood alerts. An amber cold health alert, affecting health and social care, is also in effect until Saturday noon.
The storm, the ninth of the season, could set a new record if three more named storms occur before August. The Met Office attributes the increased storm activity to a more active jet stream, influenced by cold Arctic air.
Despite climate change leading to more intense downpours, it has not been shown to increase the frequency of named storms.