The Met Office has upgraded its weather warning for Storm Francis to amber, with winds of up to 70mph expected to cause disruption and pose a risk to life. The amber warning covers most of Wales and a swathe of central England, in effect from 2pm until 10pm on Tuesday.
Forecasters warn of longer journey times, potential cancellations of public transport, and closures of road, rail, air, and ferry links. Gusts of 64mph were recorded at the Needles, off the Isle of Wight, while 30 to 40mm of rain fell in Northern Ireland.
The Met Office also warns of a 'good chance' of power cuts and possible disruption to mobile phone coverage. Flying debris could lead to injuries or danger to life, with damage to buildings and trees expected, including tiles blown from roofs and branches falling on roads.
Coastal areas face additional threats from large waves and beach material being thrown onto roads, sea fronts, and properties. Chief Meteorologist Steve Ramsdale noted that such strong winds are unusual for August and urged the public to keep up to date with the latest forecasts.
