Wales is bracing for the impact of Storm Darragh, the fourth named storm of the season, which is set to bring heavy rain and strong winds with potentially life-threatening consequences.
The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for damaging winds expected to hit most of Wales from 3am to 9pm on Saturday.
A yellow warning for rain will also be in effect from 3pm on Friday until noon on Saturday. The storm is forecasted to bring wind speeds of up to 80mph and up to 60mm of rainfall in some areas, raising concerns about flooding and travel disruption.
Regions still recovering from recent floods caused by Storm Bert, such as Rhondda Cynon Taf, are expected to be hit hard again.
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has issued over 30 flood alerts and five flood warnings, urging residents and businesses in affected areas to take immediate precautions.
The storm is expected to disrupt travel significantly:
National Highways has issued a severe weather alert for gale-force winds on Saturday, with warnings for key routes, including the M5 in Somerset, A30 in Cornwall, and M6 in Cheshire.
The M48 Severn Bridge in Gloucestershire was closed on Thursday night due to high winds.
The Met Office warns of hazardous driving conditions, particularly in rural areas and near the Irish Sea coast, where ferry services are also likely to be disrupted.
Met Office meteorologist Dan Stroud highlighted concerns about flooding and the potential for falling trees causing road closures.
“Flying debris could pose a serious risk to life,” he noted, urging the public to allow extra travel time and to remain vigilant.
