Storm Arwen set to approach with 75mph winds

The Met Office has issued several weather warnings

Author: Emma DicksonPublished 25th Nov 2021

The Met Office has issued weather warnings for much of the UK and Northern Ireland as a storm approaches bringing 75mph winds.

The weather warning will be in place from 9am on Friday, November 26 until midnight.

Storm Arwen brings with it the risk of disruption to travel, power cuts and potential damage, especially near the coasts, where large waves could see material thrown on to coastal roads, sea fronts and properties.

What to expect:

  • Some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport are likely
  • There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
  • There is a small chance that some roads and bridges could close
  • There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage

Storm Arwen is expected to shift away in the late afternoon on Saturday, leaving a drier day for many on Sunday.

Some wet weather will also move in to the far west later on Sunay, possibly preceded by some sleet and hill snow over Northern Ireland.

RAC Breakdown spokesperson Simon Williams said: "High winds can seriously affect vehicle handling, so drivers need to make sure that strong gusts don’t take them by surprise.

"It’s important to adjust your driving in windy conditions by slowing down, being very careful when passing high-sided vehicles on exposed stretches of motorway as you can be buffeted off course, and keeping a firm grip on the steering wheel."

Could snow be on the way soon?

Just yesterday we had the first mention of snow, Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Chris Almond said: "As well as strong winds, rain will also move south across the country on Friday, with showers following turning increasingly to hill snow in the north.

"This wintry mix of showers will continue on Saturday, and although snow is possible almost anywhere away from the far-south, accumulations are likely to be confined to hills."

The RNLI is urging anyone thinking of taking to the seas over the coming days to be particularly vigilant.

With high winds anticipated people should take “extreme caution” if visiting the shoreline, especially along exposed cliffs, seafronts and piers.

Read more:

7 fun things to do in Belfast when it rains

Find your nearest Christmas light switch-on event

Botanic Gardens welcomes fantastical festive lights event

How to listen to Cool FM:

Tune into Northern Ireland’s number 1 for music, Cool FM on 97.4FM, online, on our Cool FM app, your DAB radio, or say ‘Play Cool FM’ on your Smart Speaker. We play you the biggest hits from the world’s hottest artists, from Pete Snodden in the morning to the NI Hit 40.