Storm Ashley looms for North Wales with 80mph winds and floods threat

Stormy weather is forecast to strike the UK
-Credit: (Image: Met Office)


North Wales is set to be hit by the first named storm of the season this weekend. Yellow weather warnings for wind have been issued for Anglesey, Conwy and Gwynedd from 3am on Sunday, October 20 until midnight.

Severe, gale force winds and heavy rain are predicted, for parts of the UK, with forecasters keeping an eye on the situation. BBC Wales weather presenter Sabrina Lee said there was a "potential for the next named storm". Storm Ashley has already been named by Met Éireann, the Irish weather forecaster, and it looks set to sweep across the region.

Forecasters have warned there is the possibility of travel disruption, power cuts and a small chance of injuries and danger to life from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties, when the weather alert is active.

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Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Tony Wisson, said: “Storm Ashley will bring strong winds for most of the UK on Sunday before it clears on Monday, with a chance of some disruption across parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, Northwest England and West Wales.

“A period of especially strong winds are expected on Sunday afternoon and evening in western Scotland, where gusts could potentially reach 70-80mph in exposed areas and an Amber warning for winds has been issued here.

"More generally 50-60 mph are possible in some inland areas in other parts of the warning area, especially Northern Ireland and western Scotland, and perhaps up to 60-70 mph along exposed coasts and hills. These strong winds in conjunction with high spring tides, may cause some disruption.

Here is the weather forecast for Wales:

Today:

Any mist and fog patches gradually clearing to leave a largely dry start. Cloud increasing from the west with outbreaks of rain through the afternoon accompanied by a stronger breeze. Maximum temperature 16 °C.

Tonight:

Cloudy this evening with patchy outbreaks of rain, followed by a heavier band of rain clearing eastwards overnight. Strong, gusty winds at times and feeling milder. Minimum temperature 11 °C.

Saturday:

Any heavy rain in the east soon clearing to leave a day of sunny spells and a few showers. Winds gradually easing. Maximum temperature 17 °C.

Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday:

Turning wet and windy on Sunday as low pressure dominates. Drier and brighter on Monday, with sunshine and blustery showers through Tuesday. Temperatures staying around average.

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