As the first named storm of the autumn, Agnes, swept across Britain and Ireland, damaging buildings, causing travel delays, and leaving homes without power. The Met Office issued severe weather warnings covering much of the UK, where strong winds and heavy rain were expected on Wednesday evening and into Thursday. The storm brought winds of 70mph to south-west Ireland, with gusts of up to 80mph in coastal areas and 60mph inland predicted for parts of Britain.
Travel disruption was reported in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, with ferries and flights cancelled or diverted. A roof was blown off a building in the seaside resort of Youghal, County Cork, and a number of buildings were damaged in parts of Scotland and Wales. Strong winds of 63mph were recorded on the Isles of Scilly off the Cornish coast, where more than 100 properties were left without power.
In addition to the wind, the storm brought heavy rainfall to some areas, with 22mm recorded in Glenanne and Lough Fea in Northern Ireland, and 20mm in Egremont, Cumbria. The Met Office warned of potential flooding and urged people to secure outdoor furniture, fasten windows and doors tight, and clear guttering of leaves and other debris.
Autumn Storm Agnes Brings Strong Winds and Rain to BritainThere were also concerns about the impact on travel, with road, rail, air, and ferry services likely to be affected, and some roads and bridges potentially closing. The storm brought a small chance of injuries and danger to life from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads, and properties.
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) advised people to stay away from stormy seas and cliff edges, warning that it is not worth risking their lives. They also encouraged people to check the weather forecast and tide times before going near the coast, and to take a phone with them.