Storm Amy, the first named storm of the season, is set to batter northern parts of the UK from Friday evening into Saturday, the Met Office has warned. Forecasters predict gale-force winds of over 80mph and heavy rain, particularly affecting northern and western regions.
Tom Crabtree, the Met Office deputy chief meteorologist, noted uncertainty about the storm's exact track but urged the public to stay updated. Gusts could reach 50-60mph inland in northern Britain, with 70-80mph possible in some areas, and even stronger winds on exposed coasts and hills, mainly in the north-west.
Heavy rainfall is expected, especially over western Scotland, where totals could exceed 30-50mm in six to nine hours, increasing the risk of localised flooding. Yellow wind and rain warnings have been issued for Scotland, Northern Ireland, and parts of north and north-west England for Friday and Saturday, including a risk to life.
Transport Scotland has warned of travel disruption, advising motorists to check the Traffic Scotland website and passengers to verify services with train, ferry, and air operators. Martin Thomson, a Transport Scotland spokesperson, said the storm would bring difficult driving conditions and likely affect ferry and rail networks.
