Drivers have been advised to exercise caution as Storm Lilian brings strong winds and heavy rain to parts of the UK on Friday morning.
The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for winds exceeding 75mph across northern England, southern Scotland, and Wales, in effect until 11:00 BST. The storm is expected to cause travel disruptions, particularly on the M6 motorway, A66, and A1.
Heavy rain is forecast to move eastwards, potentially leading to localised flooding. Two additional yellow weather warnings for rain are in place in south-west and eastern Scotland until 09:00 BST on Friday, with a possibility of thunderstorms and up to 30mm of rainfall in these areas.
Gusts of 50-60mph have been widely recorded, with a peak of 72mph at Capel Curig in Wales. In an update posted at 5am on Friday, the Met Office warned that winds are strengthening, especially across northern England and north Wales, with damaging gusts possible.
Network Rail is monitoring the storm’s potential impact on the rail network and has teams ready to implement safety measures. The severe weather has already affected areas outside the warning zones, with the M48 Severn Bridge in Gloucestershire closed in both directions due to strong winds. Drivers are advised to use the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge as an alternative route.
Merseyside Police also issued a warning to drivers, advising them to slow down, avoid exposed motorways, and consider delaying travel if possible. Although winds are expected to ease over the bank holiday weekend, wet weather is likely to persist.
Nneoma Udensi
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