Storm Ciarán Warns UK of Fierce Winds and Heavy Rain
Amber and yellow National Severe Weather Warnings are now in effect as Storm Ciarán barrels in.
Met Office Issues Gritty Storm Alerts
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Brent Walker warned: “Wind and rain warnings linked to Storm Ciarán are active from tonight until Friday. Amber warnings for fierce winds hit parts of southwest England on Thursday morning, then the far south and southeast during the day and evening.”
He added: “Gusts of 70-80mph are expected along southern coasts, with some spots possibly seeing 85mph plus. Inland gusts could reach 50-60mph.”
Heavy rain will lash much of southern and western England, Wales, northeast England, and eastern Scotland overnight and into Friday morning. Walker said: “Expect 20-30mm widely, with 40-60mm on higher ground and up to 80mm in parts of Wales and southwest England. This falls on already saturated soil, raising flood risks.”
Keep an eye on Met Office updates – warnings may change.
Travel Chaos Looms: Prepare for Storm Conditions
Amy Shaw, National Network Manager at National Highways, urged motorists: “Plan ahead for Storm Ciarán. If conditions worsen, drive with extra caution. Remember TRIP – Top-up fluids, Rest, Inspect tyres and lights, Prepare your route and check the forecast.”
Flood Fears and Coastal Chaos
Ben Lukey, Environment Agency flood duty manager, warned of serious flooding: “Storm Ciarán’s huge waves and onshore gales could trigger significant flooding along the south coast tomorrow. Minor flooding is likely this evening from Dorset to Sussex, and along Yorkshire and Northeast coasts on Thursday.”
“Heavy rain may cause surface water and river flooding in the West, South, and Northeast from today through Friday, with showers possibly extending impacts into Saturday.”
Environment Agency crews are already clearing drains and operating flood defences. They urge locals to stay safe, avoid coastal paths, and never drive through flood water. “Just 30cm of flowing water can sweep your car away,” Lukey warns.
Check flood risks and sign up for alerts at gov.uk and follow @EnvAgency for real-time updates.
RNLI Sounds the Alarm on Coastal Safety
Ross Macleod, RNLI Water Safety Manager, stressed the dangers: “Storm Ciarán will make southern England and Wales coasts treacherous with dangerous seas. Each year, about 150 people drown in UK and Irish waters—mostly accidentally.”
“Slips and falls often lead to these tragedies. We strongly advise against coastal visits during severe weather—watch waves from a safe distance.”
“If you see someone in trouble, call 999 or 112 immediately for the Coastguard. Throw a floatation aid if you can, but never enter the water yourself.”
Storm Ciarán and Climate Outlook
Met Office’s Brent Walker added: “After Ciarán passes, unsettled weather with showers will persist. Warnings will keep updating—stay alert.”
This savage storm follows the UK’s joint-sixth wettest October on record. For more details, see the Met Office blog.
While Storm Ciarán is typical for an autumn tempest, climate models hint windstorm frequency and strength in the UK could slightly rise in coming years—though predictions vary.
