The Met Office has confirmed that Storm Boelo will hit the UK this weekend, bringing severe winds and yellow weather warnings just days after Storm Austen caused disruption on Friday afternoon.
Yellow wind warnings are in place for Northern Ireland, Scotland, and parts of England, with the storm forecast to last from 6pm on Saturday until 9pm on Sunday. Forecasters warn that some areas could see gusts of 80mph or more.
Risk of damage and danger to life
The extreme conditions bring a risk of damage to buildings and potential injuries from flying debris. Coastal communities face particularly severe hazards, with the Met Office warning of a "danger to life" as large waves and beach material could be hurled onto seafronts and coastal roads.
Widespread travel disruption is expected across the weekend, with longer journey times and cancellations likely to affect road, rail, air, and ferry services.
Emergency preparations advised
With the severe weather threatening to spark blackouts, authorities have advised residents in 53 areas to prepare emergency kits. People are being urged to gather essentials before the storm hits, including torches, spare batteries, and portable phone chargers.
The warnings cover a wide range of regions, including Central, Tayside & Fife, Grampian, Highlands & Eilean Siar, North East England, North West England, Orkney & Shetland, Strathclyde, SW Scotland, Lothian Borders, Yorkshire & Humber, and Northern Ireland.
