Sanjika De Silva BP, Jadetimes Editor
Sanjika De Silva is a Jadetimes news editor and reporter covering Fashion, Entertainment, Europe, and Travel
The UK is bracing for yet another powerful storm, as Storm Herminia makes its way across the country, bringing heavy rain, up to 80mph winds, and new weather warnings. The storm, which arrived in the South West on Sunday morning, follows closely behind Storm Eowyn, which struck the UK just days earlier and is described as possibly the strongest storm in a decade.
Storm Herminia, named by the Spanish meteorological office, is expected to move northeastward across England and Wales, intensifying the already challenging conditions left by Storm Eowyn. The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for wind and rain, advising the public to prepare for further disruption. Gusts of up to 82mph were recorded in Predannack, South Cornwall, as the storm made landfall, with the South West expected to bear the brunt of the severe weather.
The storm comes just hours after the aftermath of Storm Eowyn, which battered the UK on Friday. In the wake of its 100mph gusts, one fatality was reported, and homes, businesses, and infrastructure sustained significant damage. The storm’s violent winds resulted in widespread transport chaos, with numerous flights and other travel services canceled. With communities still recovering from the destruction of Storm Eowyn, the additional impact of Storm Herminia increases the risk of further damage, particularly to trees, buildings, and transportation networks.
The Met Office has issued several warnings for rain and wind across various parts of the UK. Areas including East Midlands, East of England, London & South East England, North West England, South West England, Wales, West Midlands, and Yorkshire & Humber have been placed under rain warnings, with heavy rain expected to cause flooding in certain regions. The South West is particularly vulnerable, with wind gusts forecast to reach up to 75mph between 6 am and 11 am on Sunday. This is followed by further warnings in the region, extending from 6 am Monday until 6 am Tuesday.
The wind warnings cover much of the same areas, with gusts of 55-65mph expected across affected regions. There is also a small chance of localized gusts reaching up to 80mph, particularly near the coast. The strongest winds are anticipated to hit a narrow swath of the UK, with the greatest risk of disruption expected along the coastal areas.
As Storm Herminia moves through, travelers are advised to prepare for potential delays, especially in affected areas. The Met Office recommends checking road conditions, as well as bus and train timetables, and adjusting travel plans accordingly. People are urged to secure outdoor items such as garden furniture, trampolines, and sheds to prevent damage or injury from flying debris. The potential for power outages further underscores the importance of preparation residents are encouraged to gather essential items like flashlights, batteries, and mobile phone power banks in case of emergency.
The storm brings additional danger for those living near coastal areas due to large waves. The Met Office advises taking extreme caution if walking near cliffs or the coastline, as large breaking waves can pose a serious threat to life. In an emergency, residents are urged to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
In addition to strong winds, heavy rain is also expected to impact large parts of England and Wales. A significant amount of rainfall is forecast to fall throughout Sunday, with up to 30-50mm of rain possible over high ground, particularly on exposed south- or southeast-facing slopes. Some areas may experience thundery showers, and by Sunday evening, a further spell of heavy rain could develop, possibly bringing up to 80mm of rain in total. Given the recent heavy rain and already saturated ground, the additional downpours are likely to exacerbate the risk of surface water flooding and river flooding in affected areas. The Met Office has urged the public to stay updated on weather forecasts and flood alerts for more localized information.
As Storm Herminia brings severe weather across the UK, the country is still grappling with the damage left by Storm Eowyn. The combination of these two storms has created an unusually high level of risk, with the potential for further loss of life, property damage, and significant travel disruption. The public is urged to follow all safety advice, monitor weather warnings closely, and take immediate action to protect themselves and their property.
The Met Office will continue to provide updates on the developing storm, and individuals are advised to keep informed about changes to weather warnings as the situation progresses. Communities across the UK are urged to stay vigilant as the storms continue to affect the region into the coming days.
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