The Met Office has issued an updated Yellow Weather Warning as Storm Pia is set to bring strong winds and rain throughout Thursday. The weather warning is in place between Midnight and 9pm on Thursday.
The forecast for Strong winds across a large swathe of the country on Thursday gales are expected to reach up to 80mph in some areas with winds of 60mph forecast for most of the UK it’s expected to bring some travel disruption and possible power cuts.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Paul Gundersen, said: “From late Wednesday into Thursday, strong winds are likely to develop across a large area of the UK. We’ve issued a large yellow warning area where there’s a potential for some impacts, but gusts of 50-60mph are possible for large parts of central and northern areas of the UK.
“Exposed coasts and high ground could see gusts of 70-80mph at times, mainly across the far north of Scotland. There’s a chance this low pressure will continue to exert its influence into Friday, so it’s important to stay up to date with the latest Met Office forecast. This system has been named Storm Pia by the Danish Met Service, with the system likely to have more severe impacts in Denmark.”
P&O Freight Ferries have been forced to cancel all services between Cairnryan in Scotland and Larne in Northern Ireland until 4pm tomorrow, as Storm Pia wrecks havoc on Christmas travel plans.
In a statement the company said: “Due to Storm Pia our sailings on 21st Dec23 between 08:00 & 16:00 are cancelled. We apologise for the impact to your travel plans.”
Some National Trust sites will be closed tomorrow as the UK braces to be hit by 80mph winds brought on by Storm Pia.
The National Trust said “With StormPia heading our way tomorrow, some of our places will be closed to help keep our staff, volunteers and visitors safe - if you’re hoping for a winter wander, please check the place you’re planning to visit is open before you travel.”
Network Rail has confirmed services in Scotland will be delayed tomorrow morning as they assess the damage done by Storm Pia overnight. Due to the risk of trees and debris blocking the lines following 80mph winds due tonight, Network Rail said some rail lines will need to be inspected before passenger services can begin to run.
The delays to services in Scotland could lead to delays on Westcoast main line services for Penrith commuters on Thursday morning.
Cumbria Police have said “Motorists are asked to drive to the road conditions and allow for extra time on any journey tomorrow.”
“Take extra care and, where possible, avoid exposed areas of the county where the wind could cause the most disruption.”
Friday will remain windy for many, with further periods of rain likely to sweep in from the west.
We will bring updates throughout Thursday on local impacts along with travel delays and cancellations that could impact your Christmas travel plans .
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