The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for gale-force winds across the northern half of the UK over the Easter weekend. Gusts of 50-60mph are expected widely, with exposed locations facing 60-70mph and western areas of Scotland potentially seeing 80-90mph.
The warning covers Scotland, Northern Ireland, and parts of north Wales and northern England from 6pm on Saturday until midday on Sunday. The winds are driven by a 'significant cold plunge from Canada into the North Atlantic', strengthening the jet stream and creating a deep low-pressure system.
Travel disruption is likely, including delays to road, rail, air, and ferry services, with possible cancellations. High-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges may face delays, and some roads and bridges could close. Power cuts and damage to buildings, such as roof tiles being blown off, are also possible.
Forecasters warn of a small chance of injuries from large waves and beach material thrown onto seafronts, coastal roads, and properties. Winds should ease through Easter Sunday as the low clears to the North Sea.
Separately, the Met Office reported that March was provisionally one of the warmest on record in England and Wales, with a pronounced north-south rainfall split. Southern England saw 37% less rain than average, while northern England and Scotland had 14% and 19% above average, respectively.
