THE Met Office has warned that 60mph winds will hit vast swathes of the UK today sparking fears of pre-Christmas travel chaos.
Disruption may be likely as strong wind gusts could hamper ferry crossings, as well as bus and train services, in the area.
MET OfficeThe Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for wind[/caption]
GettyIt warned coastal areas could face large waves[/caption]
GettyThese strong gales could cause disruption[/caption]
GettyStorm Darragh’s strong winds caused damage earlier this month[/caption]
The forecaster has issued a yellow warning for wind across large parts of the west coast of Wales, east coast of Northern Ireland, and much of southern and western Scotland.
It said that southerly winds will strengthen throughout Tuesday afternoon, evening, and night, with gales developing along some exposed coasts.
Peak gusts of 40-50mph are likely fairly widely inland, with speeds of 50-60mph possible in more exposed places, including along some coastlines.
Large cities such as Glasgow, Edinburgh, Belfast are located in the warning area, alongside many coastal regions, and could see strong gales.
The agency warned these winds could lead to disruption of ferry crossings and tricky travelling conditions on higher level and west-east routes.
It said that winds will begin to ease in Northern Ireland during the early hours of Wednesday, and other areas will follow suit around or after dawn.
Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill said winds will be strengthening as we head towards this evening.
He added: “Going into Wednesday, the strongest winds will become confined to the northern isles.”
The yellow warning is in place from 3pm today until 8am tomorrow morning, and could lead to some delays for a range of transport, according to the forecaster.
The Met Office said that some coastal routes, sea fronts, and coastal communities would likely be affected by spray or large waves.
Some bus and train services are also likely to be affected, with some journeys taking longer than usual.
The forecaster also warned that high-sided vehicles travelling on exposed routes and bridges are likely to face delays.
In order to give your best chance of avoiding delays, check the road conditions before driving, or bus and train timetables before travelling.
Also, be prepared to amend your travel plans if necessary, advised the agency.
The Met Office added: “If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves.
“Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea.
The Met Office five-day forecast
TODAY
Outbreaks of rain soon spreading into Northern Ireland and Scotland, then spreading erratically eastwards into Wales and western England during the afternoon.
Largely dry but often cloudy elsewhere. Feeling mild, but winds strengthening throughout the day, especially in the west.
TONIGHT
A windy night, with outbreaks of rain spreading across all parts. Heaviest and most persistent rain across western hills, with some clearer albeit showery conditions arriving into the northwest later.
WEDNESDAY
A blustery and colder day across the north, with showers moving across many parts. Southern areas will see a band of wind and rain move northeastwards, but staying mild here.
THURSDAY TO SATURDAY
Colder for all on Thursday with sunshine and showers, after early rain clears the south. Milder again from Friday but staying changeable and often windy, with further spells of rain.
“Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead.
“In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
For the rest of today, temperatures will remain above average for this time of year, although wind and rain will make it feel colder than it is.
Meteorologist Alex added that outbreaks of heavy rain will hit Scotland going into Wednesday, with blustery conditions across much of the UK.
By Wednesday afternoon, a swathe of heavier and more persistent rain will arrive in the south west of England and south Wales.
While much of the south will see double digit temperatures, Scotland will be feeling much cooler, as colder air begins to push its way in.
ReutersCoastal areas are likely to be most affected[/caption]