The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for strong and gusty winds, which could bring widespread disruption to travel and power supplies between 8pm on Sunday 14th September and 6pm on Monday 15th September.
Forecasters say strong west or southwesterly winds will first arrive across coastal areas of southwest England and Wales on Sunday evening, before moving more widely inland through Monday morning. Gusts of 45 to 55mph are expected across much of the country, while exposed coasts and hilly regions could be battered by winds reaching 60 to 70mph. Conditions are expected to gradually ease from the west later on Monday afternoon and into the evening.
The Met Office has warned that the severe weather could cause delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport. Commuters may face longer travel times, and some bus and train services could be disrupted. Drivers of high-sided vehicles are also being urged to take particular care when crossing exposed routes and bridges.
Coastal communities are likely to feel the brunt of the conditions, with spray and large waves expected to cause difficulties along seafronts and coastal routes. Residents and visitors are urged to keep a safe distance from the shoreline during the storm.
There is also a risk of short-term power cuts and interruptions to other essential services. The Met Office is advising households to prepare by ensuring they have torches, batteries, mobile phone power packs, and other necessities to cope with potential outages.
For those near the coast, safety advice includes avoiding large breaking waves, which can sweep people off their feet and into the sea, and taking care when walking near cliffs. Dog walkers are reminded to keep pets on a lead and to plan routes carefully.
Travelers are advised to give themselves the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions and public transport timetables before setting out, and altering plans where possible.
The Met Office is reminding the public that weather warnings can change quickly and is urging people to stay up to date with the latest forecasts in their area.
