Storm Darragh live: Millions told to stay inside as rare red weather warning disrupts travel and sports events

Around 3 million people in Wales [1] and southwest England have been warned by the government to stay indoors with Storm Darragh making landfall on Saturday morning [2]. A mass message warned people of a "danger to life" risk as a result of "flying debris, falling trees and large waves around coastal areas"[3]. It was the largest use of the warning system yet, with the alert urging residents to avoid driving and to "stay indoors if you can".

The Merseyside derby between Everton [4] and Liverpool [5] has been postponed as Storm Darragh's high winds strike with 110mph winds expected in some areas. Flights are in disarray across the UK, with hundreds of cancellations and some extreme diversions as planes abort landings at Heathrow and others are diverted to Germany.

Key Points

Millions have been warned to stay indoors as 92mph winds recorded in Wales
16 flights cancelled from Belfast City Airport
Emergency phone alerts triggered by government
Tornadoes possible, says storm research body
Mapped: Where will Storm Darragh hit?

Storm Darragh makes landfall in Ireland as 90mph winds batter seafront

11:20 , Barney Davis

Red warning downgraded to amber

11:16 , Barney Davis A rare red warning covering parts of Wales and south-west England on Saturday has expired at 11am.

But the Met Office downgrading the region to an amber alert said a period of very strong northerly or northwesterly winds is likely to remain during Saturday as Storm Darragh moves from west to east. Gusts of 70 to 80 mph are likely around exposed coasts and headlands, where some very large waves are likely, whilst gusts of 60 to 70 mph are likely inland. The strongest winds will ease from the west through the afternoon.A yellow warning for wind remains in effect until 6am on Sunday morning.

Stunning shot of waves crashing into Moher cliffs

11:12 , Barney Davis

Photographer Elaine Farrell captured stunning shots at the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland.

Storm Darragh has brought travel chaos to Scotland

11:02 , Barney Davis The train line between Ayr and Girvan was shut after a large tree fell onto the tracks, while snow gates were closed on roads in the north-east of Scotland. An amber wind warning is in place for parts of Dumfries and Galloway and South Ayrshire until 9pm on Saturday.

The Energy Networks Association reported 86,000 homes in England, Scotland and Wales were without power. Scotrail said services on the line between Girvan and Ayr were disrupted by the tree on the tracks, with Network Rail sending a chainsaw team to the site. There have been snow gate closures on the A93 and A939 roads, while the southbound A1 was restricted at Eyemouth due to a fallen tree.

CalMac also warned of possible disruptions to ferry sailings on the west coast.

More images coming in showing devastation of 90mph winds in Burnham-on-Sea

10:56 , Barney Davis

(EPA)

(EPA)

(EPA)

(REUTERS)

Cardiff locals count damage of Storm Darragh

10:48 , Barney Davis A Cardiff resident described a "superb effort" from a council that cleared a tree that fell during Storm Darragh, breaking windows and damaging the wall around a property. Stuart Cox, 64, told the PA news agency that an approximately 50ft mature tree on Cathedral Road in the Welsh capital fell into his next door neighbour's garden in the early hours of Saturday.

"It broke one window two doors down and destroyed next door's gate. The only damage to ours was the front wall was forced sideways, making the wall unstable and unable to shut the gate," the accountant said. "The council teams moved to us, after clearing other trees, around 5.30am and were all done by 8am.

Superb effort."

Latest images emerging of havoc wreaked by Storm Darragh

10:27 , Barney Davis

(AFP via Getty Images)

(Peter Byrne/PA Wire)

Train cancellations across the Great Western Railway network

10:15 , Barney Davis Simon Calder, travel correspondent of The Independent, has been at London Paddington station since early today. He reports: "Here at London Paddington, things have taken a turn for the worse since I got here at 6am.

Many Great Western Railway lines are closed including Cardiff to Swansea and on to Carmarthen for the rest of the day, Plymouth to Penzance at least until lunchtime and all the GWR branch lines in Devon and Cornwall. "Trains from Bristol are arriving up to 45 minutes late due to speed restrictions, which is triggering cancellations in the opposite direction. The train firm is now advising customers to change their plans if possible this weekend, and warning that fallen trees and other debris may also impact services.

"GWR has also issued a Do Not Travel notice for Sunday - but that is because of an expected shortage of train crew rather than bad weather. Anyone with a ticket for this weekend can use it on Monday."

Passengers wait in Paddington as numerous services are delayed (Simon Calder)

Air chaos with hundreds of cancellations and diversions

10:00 , Barney Davis Flights are in disarray across the UK, with hundreds of cancellations and some extreme diversions.

Passengers due to be arriving at Manchester airport from Abu Dhabi on Etihad spend one hour flying around in circles waiting to land - and eventually diverted to Frankfurt in Germany. The Boeing 777 is now expected to fly to Manchester at lunchtime. British Airways has made 70 short-haul domestic and European cancellations at London Heathrow, including multiple flights to and from Edinburgh, Jersey and Milan.

Belfast City has had at least 30 arrivals and departures cancelled to and from airports across Britain, including Cardiff, London Heathrow, Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow. At Belfast International the only cancellation so far is to and from Bristol. At Bristol the early morning Ryanair arrival from Venice was diverted to London Stansted, and at least two dozen easyJet flights are grounded, including to Barcelona, Porto and Geneva.

The airline is telling passengers: "Following guidance from the UK Government to avoid travel within the Bristol area during the morning of 7 December, regrettable we've been unable to operate your flight today."

A plane takes off at Leeds Bradford Airport during Storm Darragh (Danny Lawson/PA) (PA Wire)

More sporting events to be cancelled after Merseyside derby called off

09:57 , Barney Davis The Merseyside derby between Everton [6] and Liverpool [7] has been postponed as Storm Darragh is set to batter the UK [8]. Everton were set to host their city rivals [9] at Goodison Park [10] in the Premier League [11] for the final time in the 12.30pm kick-off on Saturday, with their long-awaited new stadium [12] at Bramley Moore Dock close to completion and likely to be ready for start of next season.

Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool called off as Storm Darragh batters UK [13]

Ferries cancelled across Irish Sea and in the Western Isles of Scotland

09:45 , Simon Calder

On the Irish Sea, all sailings on P&O Ferries between Cairnryan and Larne are cancelled today. Stena Line between Cairnryan and Belfast is cancelled until early evening. No Holyhead-Dublin or Fishguard-Rosslare ferries will operate all day on Stena Line.

It's a similar picture on Irish Ferries between Pembroke and Rosslare. Cancellations on Caledonian MacBrayne ferries serving the Western Isles of Scotland are affecting Arran, Islay, Lewis, Mull and other islands. Many CalMac ferries are cancelled all day today.

(Fergus Sweeney/PA Wire)

Aborted landings at Heathrow spotted as Big Jet TV returns for Storm Darragh

09:41 , Barney Davis

Several shaky landings have been captured on camera as pilots attempt to touchdown in Heathrow amid Storm Darragh. Big Jet TV, which regularly films livestreams from Heathrow, has captured several "go-arounds", in which an aircraft trying to land on the runway aborts its attempt, instead flying back around the airport for another attempt. Jerry Dyer, who runs the channel, has been frequently heard shouting "bosh" as the aircraft touch down, praising the pilots' skills.

Trees sent crashing down in high winds in Somerset

09:23 , Barney Davis

Huge trees were sent crashing on top of houses in Burnham-on-Sea as residents woke up to observe the damage wreaked by Storm Darragh overnight. Trees fell on Rectory Road in the coastal town as the National Grid says around 4,684 people have lost power in Somerset.

Nearly 110mph winds expected on summit of Mount Snowden

09:10 , Barney Davis Mountain climbers may want to take the day off with wind speeds of nearly 110mph expected on the top of Mount Snowdon.

The Met Office predicts 105mph into the evening on the Snowdon Summit as the UK braces for the impact of Storm Darragh. Gusts of 93mph have already been recorded overnight in Capel Curig in North Wales, with 92mph in Aberdaron on the Llyn Peninsula. Winds in other parts of Wales topped 80mph, while gusts of up to 77mph were recorded in Northern Ireland and south-west England, the forecaster said.

Storm chasers document destruction across Devon

09:00 , Barney Davis

UK weather chasers have filmed themselves driving in dangerous conditions as trees fall down and huge waves crash into coastal areas across the south west. The Met Office issued the red weather warning - the most serious type - on Friday for wind, meaning dangerous weather is expected and people are urged to take action to keep themselves and others safe. The warning, which has led to the cancellation of events including Christmas attractions, is in place from 3am to 11am on Saturday.

The Met Office warned of "damaging winds" with gusts of 90mph possible over the coasts and hills of West and South Wales. Forecasters say the strongest winds will begin to ease from late morning.

The Merseyside derby is off due to the impact of Storm Darragh

08:50 , Barney Davis Saturday's Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park has been postponed.

Merseyside Police have warned against any non-essential travel in the region on Saturday, with an amber weather alert in place.

Power knocked out for thousands as Storm Darragh strikes

08:40 , Barney Davis Thousands of people across Northern Ireland, England and Wales were left without power as they braced for the storm's impact. As of 5am, National Grid reported more than 12,600 premises had lost power in the Midlands and south-west and more than 20,000 homes had been disconnected in Wales.

A note on the Northern Ireland Electricity Network's website said the authority was unable to provide estimated restoration times. "Due to the number of faults we are currently experiencing on the network, we are unable to provide an estimated restoration time for your electricity supply at this time," it read. "We are working to restore supplies as quickly and safely as possible."

Business Secretary describes the storm as a "challenging situation".

08:38 , Barney Davis

Around three million homes have received an emergency alert on their mobile phones as Storm Darragh hits the UK, Jonathan Reynolds said. Speaking to Sky News, the Business Secretary described the storm as a "challenging situation". He added: "About three million homes will have had the emergency alert system to their mobile phone.

I would just encourage anyone who has had that to follow the advice." National Grid is responding to the 20,000 homes without power, Mr Reynolds said, adding staff "will be on standby for any further challenges throughout the rest of the day". He added: "Where you can, stay inside, don't put yourself at risk, and just follow the advice at all times."

Met Office offers satellite view of Storm Darragh

08:37 , Barney Davis

The Met Office has offered a satellite view of Storm Darragh as it warned millions of people to stay indoors with their rare red alert. The red alert lasts until 11am today with people on the Welsh coast told to expect:

Danger to life due to flying debris and falling trees
Large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and homes
Power cuts affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage
Damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down

Weather enthusiast catches moment Storm Darragh strikes in timelapse

08:25 , Barney Davis A man living in Irlam in the north west captured the moment Storm Darragh changed the wind direction as it made landfall in England this morning.

KD Bradshaw, living in Irlam, near Manchester told The Independent: "I'm going to be staying indoors today. The wind is not too bad at the moment but it is expected to get worse. "Fortunately I'm outside the amber warning... for the moment."

Millions have been warned to stay indoors as 92mph winds recorded in Wales

08:20 , Barney Davis

Millions have been warned to stay indoors, thousands are without power and trains have been cancelled as the Government's "risk to life" alert brought on by Storm Darragh came into force. The emergency alert came into effect at 1am on Saturday for people covered by the Met Office's rare red warning for wind in parts of Wales and south-west England. It was the largest use of the warning system yet, with the alert urging residents to avoid driving and to "stay indoors if you can".

The Met Office confirmed to the PA news agency wind gusts of up to 92mph had been recorded overnight in Capel Curig in North Wales and Aberdaron on the Llyn Peninsula.

Liverpool fans advised to 'remain alert' before match on Saturday

07:00 , Alex Croft Liverpool FC has advised its fans to "remain alert" and "take extra care" before their away Merseyside derby fixture at Everton's Goodison Park. The club said in a statement: "Supporters attending Saturday's Merseyside derby at Goodison Park are advised to allow extra time for travel and remain alert to Met Office weather warnings.

"An amber severe wind warning has been issued by the Met Office for Merseyside from 1am GMT on Saturday, with wind gusts of 60mph to 70mph likely. The warning for wind is expected to remain in place until 6am on Sunday. "Given the weather warning, fans are advised to allow extra time for their journey and take extra care.

"Supporters are also advised to keep a close eye on travel and weather guidance in their area to assist with travel planning for the Premier League fixture (12.30pm kick-off)."

ICYMI: Tornadoes possible, says storm research body

06:29 , Alex Croft Tornadoes could strike the UK as Storm Darragh prepares to wreak havoc, a storm research body has said. "Wind gusts to around 70-75mph could accompany the stronger cores, and one or tornadoes are possible too," said the Tornado and Storm Research Organisation (Torro), a privatrely-supported and volunteer-led research body which specialises in severe convective weather in Britain and Ireland.

The entirety of Ireland, Wales, and most of England - barring parts of the north and east - are expected to be in affected areas, according to a map published by Torro in its update on Friday afternoon.

In pictures: Dublin prepares for Storm Darragh earlier on Friday

06:02 , Alex Croft

A person takes shelter under an umbrella as they cross the Sean O'Casey Bridge in Dublin's city centre (Brian Lawless/PA Wire)

A person walks a dog on Clontarf Promenade in Dublin (Brian Lawless/PA Wire)

A person on a slipway in Clontarf, Dublin (Brian Lawless/PA Wire)

Report: All football in Wales cancelled as Storm Darragh to batter country

05:31 , Alex Croft As Storm Darragh batters the UK [14], the Football Association of Wales [15] (FAW [16]) has announced that all football matches scheduled for Saturday 7 December have been postponed. The Met Office has issued its most extreme red weather warning, with Storm Darragh bringing life-threatening 90mph winds in Wales and parts of southwestern England.[17][18][19]

The red alert is the first of its kind to be issued since Storm Isha in January, with forecasters warning of significant disruption, including damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down. And the FAW have followed advice from the Met Office to call off all Saturday football in the country, with Friday and Sunday matches set to be considered on a case-by-case basis. Read the full report:

All football in Wales cancelled as Storm Darragh to batter country [20]

Longleat Safari Park closed on Saturday due to Storm Darragh

05:01 , Alex Croft

Longleat Safari Park will be closed to visitors on Saturay as Storm Darragh batters the country. The Swindon Advertiser quoted a spokesperson for the Wiltshire safari park as saying: "We are sorry but due to the weather forecast, we have taken the decision to close on Saturday to ensure you are kept safe ... We are currently planning to re-open on Sunday.

If that changes we will update our website and social media." The park is home to 120 species, including aardvarks, elephants, crocodiles, lions and cheetahs.

Storm Darragh: How to prepare as Met Office warns strong winds set to batter UK

04:02 , Alex Croft A rare red warning [21] for high winds has been issued by the Met Office [22] as Storm Darragh hits the UK, which warns of significant disruption and a "danger to life".

Parts of Wales and southwest England could see gusts of wind reaching 90mph between 3am to 11am on Saturday [23], while an amber warning is in place across most of the rest of the UK. Flying debris and falling trees could pose a risk to life, while large waves and beach material could be thrown onto coastal roads and seafronts.[24] There could also be damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down, as well as power cuts affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage.

Read the full report from Holly Evans:

Storm Darragh: How to prepare as strong winds set to batter UK [25]

Highly unusual red weather warning should be heeded, RAC warns

03:01 , Alex Croft RAC spokesperson Alice Simpson said: "A red weather warning is highly unusual and should be heeded as it can indicate a risk to life. "With parts of Wales and the South West set to be battered by the wind between 3am and 11am on Saturday, we strongly advise drivers to postpone their journeys if they can.

"Anyone who must drive should stick to major roads, reduce their speed significantly, always keep a firm grip of the steering wheel and be on high alert for debris in the road. "Exposed rural and coastal routes will be particularly treacherous. Drivers in these areas should be wary of any high-sided vehicles as they are at risk of being buffeted off course or, worse still, blown over.

"We also suggest parking well away from large trees due to the danger of falling branches or whole trees being uprooted."

Watch: Rare red warning issued as UK braces for Storm Darragh

02:00 , Alex Croft

Christmas market cancelled due to dangerous winds

01:29 , Alex Croft A christmas market in Chiswick has been cancelled as a result of the dangerous winds amid Storm Darragh. The christmas market was set to offer handmade gifts, jewellery, christmas carols sung by a performing arts choir, and story telling by Santa.

But the kids booked in with the big red man will have to reschedule their appointments after heavy winds prompted organisers to call off the festive event. Xanthe Arvanitakis, director of Chiswick House & Gardens Trust, told Chiswick Calendar: "It's really disappointing, but what can we do? We've been told winds of 40mph are expected, which just makes it too dangerous to open the park.

"We have lost that income, but also the stallholders will have lost the opportunity to earn money. We are doing everything we can, we hope the public will understand."

When in the past has the Met Office issued red weather warnings?

01:01 , Alex Croft It is rare for the Met Office to issue red weather warnings.

Here are some recent examples: Heatwave, July 2022 A heatwave in mid-July 2022 saw temperatures reach unprecedented levels in many parts of the UK, passing 40C for the first time on July 19 and peaking at 40.3C at Coningsby in Lincolnshire.

The conditions prompted the Met Office to issue its first ever red warning for extreme heat, covering much of central and southern England, while the government declared a national emergency. Storm Eunice, February 2022 Two red warnings for wind were issued for Storm Eunice, covering areas of south-west and south-east England.

It was the most severe and damaging storm to affect England and Wales since 2014, with winds of more than 81mph in exposed coastal locations and a gust of 122mph recorded on the Needles off the coast of the Isle of Wight, setting a new England gust speed record. Storm Arwen, November 2021 A red warning for wind was issued for Storm Arwen, running down the eastern edge of the UK from Aberdeen to Newcastle.

The storm saw wind speeds of more than 69mph in many areas of Scotland and northern England, with a gust of 98mph recorded at Brizlee Wood in Northumberland. More than one million homes lost power, three people died when they were hit by falling trees, and rail passengers in Aberdeenshire were stuck on a train overnight. Storm Dennis, February 2020

A red warning for rain was issued for parts of South Wales during storm Dennis. The storm brought very strong winds, but the worst of the disruption was caused by exceptionally heavy rain.

Claims of possible 'mini-tornado' in Staffordshire

00:29 , Alex Croft Residents in Staffordshire have reported powerful winds believed by some to have been a tornado, described as "like a bomb going off".

Staffordshire Police said it had reports of 25 trees having been blown down after residents in Clayton and Kidsgrove reported a short blast of "deafening" winds which began and ended without warning. StokeonTrentLive quoted one reader as saying: "A mini tornado just came through Clayton, it ripped our grass up, ripped the roof tiles off our neighbour's roof. There's fence panels everywhere, I've never seen anything like it, the sound was deafening.

"We don't even know if our roof is ok yet. All the neighbours were in the street assessing the damage. A friend said they could hear the intense sound from far away near Westbury Park - like a bomb going off.

It lasted about 15 seconds." Responding to reports of a possible tornado, one Facebook user in Kidsgrove reported power outages and felled trees, adding: "It passed right through our cul-de-sac! Completely out of the blue the wind just went wild, it was roaring through our house and the trees were bending.

"It was so fast too. We opened the door to take a better look and struggled to close it. Then as quick as it had started, it just stopped.

It didn't slow down, it literally just stopped." Another said: "I'm in Kidsgrove and there are trees down everywhere, main roads closed because of debris, roofs blown off and I have never heard wind like that in my life, it was so powerful and our furniture on the decking was banging on the patio doors so loudly." And a third person wrote: "I'm in kidsgrove and the wind was brutal for just a few minutes and stopped.

Our garden has been savaged. Not just fence panels down but a breeze block wall collapsed."

Red warning: Damaging winds could tear roofs from homes and bring down power lines

00:01 , Alex Croft The red weather warning - in force from 3am until 11am on Saturday - is due to damaging winds expected to cause significant disruption.

Here is what the Met Office says those living in affected areas should expect:

Danger to life due to flying debris and falling trees
Large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and homes
Power cuts affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage
Damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down
Roads, bridges and railway lines closed, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights

'Put Big Light On' festival postponed due to Storm Darragh

Friday 6 December 2024 23:45 , Alex Croft The 'Put Big Light On' festival in Bolton has been postponed due to the forecast of winds up to 80mph and rain during Storm Darragh. The lights festival was due to begin last evening and was scheduled to run until Sunday.

However, it now stands postponed indefinitely. "We have not taken the decision to postpone lightly, however the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved is always our top priority," the festival authorities said in a statement. "We apologise to the public, performers and traders for the inconvenience this has caused."

What is causing Storm Darragh?

Friday 6 December 2024 23:29 , Alex Croft

Storm Darragh follows a period of "unsettled and squally conditions". An area of low pressure will bring strong winds and heavy rain to much of the UK, with the heaviest rainfall expected to be focussed in the northern and western parts of the warning area. Some snow will hit northern areas above 200m, the forecaster said.

Met Office chief forecaster Jason Kelly on Thursday described Storm Darragh as an "evolving system".

How to stay safe in strong wind

Friday 6 December 2024 23:15 , Alex Croft The Met Office has issued its top tips for staying safe in areas with strong wind over the weekend. Here's what to do if Storm Darragh brings gusty winds to your area, according to the Met:

Protect your property: "Don't risk injury to others or damage to your property [26].
Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them in high winds," the forecaster says.
Plan routes and pack essentials for any journeys: The forecaster stresses that "windy weather can cause delays and make driving conditions dangerous."
Drive slowly and cautiously in strong wind: "Driving in these conditions can be dangerous, for yourself and other road users," says the Met Office.
Take when near coast: Check forecasts and tides and be aware of large waves, the Met Office says. Take care walking near cliffs.
Stay indoors as much as possible: "Being outside in high winds makes you more vulnerable to injury. Stay indoors as much as possible.
If you do go out, try not to walk or shelter close to buildings and trees," the Met Office says.

What will days following Storm Darragh look like?

Friday 6 December 2024 23:01 , Alex Croft Storm Darragh will bring a turbulent weekend of weather to British shores. But from Sunday, the weather should settle and be replaced with some drier and brighter weather.

The Met Office's forecast for Sunday through to Tuesday reads: "Turning colder on Sunday and Monday with showers and blustery winds gradually easing. Drier and brighter later Monday and into Tuesday as high pressure build with some mist and fog."

Four flights cancelled from Cardiff Airport

Friday 6 December 2024 22:45 , Alex Croft Four flights due to depart from Cardiff Airport on Saturday have been cancelled .

Much of Cardiff will be covered by a red weather warning for wind until 11am on Saturday, with the Met Office warning of gusts of 90mph or more possible in south Wales. The cancelled flights were due to fly to Enontekio, Ivalo, Amsterdam and Belfast City.

16 flights cancelled from Belfast City Airport

Friday 6 December 2024 22:32 , Alex Croft More than a dozen flights from Belfast City Airport on Saturday have been cancelled as Northern Ireland braces itself for an amber weather warning.

All of the cancelled flights were scheduled to fly to other cities in the UK, bar one going to Amsterdam. Dublin Airport has also seen 21 flight departures cancelled on Saturday. It includes flights to London Heathrow, Washington, Manchester, Paris, Newcastle and Edinburgh, among others.

In pictures: Dublin prepares for Storm Darragh earlier on Friday

Friday 6 December 2024 22:20 , Alex Croft

A person takes shelter under an umbrella as they cross the Sean O'Casey Bridge in Dublin's city centre (Brian Lawless/PA Wire)

A person walks a dog on Clontarf Promenade in Dublin (Brian Lawless/PA Wire)

A person on a slipway in Clontarf, Dublin (Brian Lawless/PA Wire)

'Change plans accordingly' if in red alert area, suggests Met Office forecaster

Friday 6 December 2024 22:03 , Alex Croft

Change your plans accordingly if in an area subject to red or amber warnings, a Met Office forecaster has advised. Meteorologist Alex Deakin said: "The main advice, particularly if you're in the amber or red area, is just think about what your plans are for this weekend and change them accordingly. "But even if you're in the yellow warning area there are going to be issues with lots of people out and about, it's a Saturday before Christmas, so again just think about what your plans are, make sure you're across the warnings.

They're being tweaked all the time."

Graphic shows how Storm Darragh will unfold on Saturday

Friday 6 December 2024 21:47 , Alex Croft

Why does rain and high wind cause train delays?

Friday 6 December 2024 21:31 , Alex Croft National Rail has explained why rain and high winds can cause issues on the rail network. Its website outlines three reasons delays occur.

Heavy rain can "flood tracks meaning trains run at severely reduced speeds or are unable to run at all".
Water can "displace the ballast leading to potential track defects or landslips".
Flooding can "damage points and signalling equipment which means trains cannot move from one track to another".

National Rail warns of 'significant disruption' ahead

Friday 6 December 2024 21:15 , Alex Croft

National Rail has warned that there will be "significant disruption" to rail services this weekend. The rail company said on its website: "From this evening, Storm Darragh is expected to bring significant disruption with heavy rain and wind. Please check your journey in full before travelling as it may mean last services of the day are cancelled and you may not reach your destination."

It advises those who are considering travelling to check their journey online.

Multiple A-roads to close, says Traffic Wales

Friday 6 December 2024 21:00 , Alex Croft Traffic Wales will close parts of the A55, A5 and A483 roads, Traffic Wales says. The body post on X: "A55 Britannia Bridge will close to all vehicles due to extremely high winds 07/12 from 2:00 until winds have eased at approx.

12:00." In a later post, it said: "Based on current forecasts the A5 Ceiriog & A483 Dee Viaducts will close between 07/12 06:00 and approximately 21:00 because of severe winds."

Emergency government alert sent to millions with Storm Darragh set to endanger life

Friday 6 December 2024 20:44 , Alex Croft Around three million people in Wales and south-west England have been sent an emergency alert by the government with Storm Darragh set to batter the UK on Saturday.

In the largest ever real-life use of the alert system, the government warned people of a risk of a "danger to life" as a result of "flying debris, falling trees and large waves around coastal areas" on Saturday. The "severe alert" made a siren noise for around 10 seconds to warn people within the area set to be worst affected by Storm Darragh. A rare red weather warning has been issued by the Met Office for Saturday.

Life-threatening 90mph winds are expected to strike Wales and parts of southwestern England, along with a likelihood of significant disruption to travel and damage to buildings and homes. Read the full report:

Emergency government alert sent to millions with Storm Darragh set to endanger life [27]

Met Office shares latest full forecast

Friday 6 December 2024 20:28 , Alex Croft The Met Office has shared it's latest updates on Storm Darragh's impact over the weekend.

Here's what Met Office chief forecaster Jason Kelly said: The worst impacts from Storm Darragh will be felt as we go through the early hours of tomorrow morning and throughout Saturday with, in addition to the broad yellow warning, red and amber wind warnings in place from 1 am tomorrow. In the red warning area, we could see wind gusts of up to 90 miles per hour along the coasts of west and south Wales as well as funnelling through the Bristol Channel, with some very large waves on exposed beaches.

Although there is a lower likelihood of impacts outside of the red and amber warning areas this doesn't mean you won't see them. We are likely to see impacts across the whole of the country and people should keep an eye on the latest forecast details and prepare for the bad weather, especially if planning to be out and about on Saturday. Some areas are likely to have a relatively quiet start to Saturday, weather-wise, but winds will quickly increase from the west through the day.

What is a red weather warning and why do the Met Office issue them?

Friday 6 December 2024 20:12 , Alex Croft

A rare red warning for wind has been issued by the Met Office [28] as Storm Darragh hits the UK. Here, we explain what it means. What is a weather warning?[29]

A weather [30] warning is issued by the Met Office through the National Severe Weather Warning Service. The aim is to keep people safe by warning what severe weather is in store and what the impacts may be. Read the full explainer:

What is a red weather warning and why do the Met Office issue them?[31]

Nine flood warnings and 164 flood alerts in place

Friday 6 December 2024 19:56 , Alex Croft

Nine flood warnings and 164 flood alerts are in place across England, Scotland and Wales. A flood warning means flooding is expected so people in the area should "act now". It is the second most severe out of three tier to the flood warning system.

A flood alert, the least severe tier, means flooding is "possible" and advises people to "be prepared". England's Environment Agency has issued eight flood warnings and 116 flood alerts, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency has issued one warning and 11 alerts, and Natural Resources Wales has issued 37 alerts. You can check if your area is at risk of flooding using the below links:

England (Environment Agency)[32] Scotland (Scottish Environment Protection Agency)[33] Wales (Natural Resources Wales)[34]

From Babet to Walid: How and why storms get their names

Friday 6 December 2024 19:40 , Alex Croft

As Storm Darragh batters the UK, here's a reminder of how and why storms get their names:

From Babet to Walid: How and why storms get their names [35]

Pictured: Government's emergency alert sent to around 3 million people

Friday 6 December 2024 19:22 , Alex Croft

The emergency alert was sent to around 3 million mobile phones (The Independent)

Which areas will receive emergency alerts?

Friday 6 December 2024 19:07 , Alex Croft The government's emergency alert will be sent to around three million people, containing "information about the red warning and guidance on how to stay safe into Saturday". Here are the areas which will receive, or have received, the alert:

Emergency phone alerts to be triggered by government

Friday 6 December 2024 18:57 , Alex Croft

Emergency phone alerts will be triggered by the government in parts of the country worst affected by Storm Darragh. A Cabinet Office spokesperson said: "In light of the damaging winds and associated disruption, the Cabinet Office will issue an Emergency Alert at 1845 hrs on Friday 6th December to people in areas covered by the red warning in parts of Wales and the South West." The alert will be sent to those with compatible phones, "containing information about the red warning and guidance on how to stay safe into Saturday".

It will be the "largest ever use of the system outside a test scenario," the Cabinet Office added. "Mobile phones will make a loud siren-like sound even if they are set on silent. The sound and vibration will last for about 10 seconds.

"The UK Government has well rehearsed plans in place for severe winter weather and is working with teams from devolved governments, local authorities, the emergency services and other public bodies to coordinate the response to any disruption."

Storm Darragh map: When and where UK will be hit by 90mph winds and rain from tonight

Friday 6 December 2024 18:43 , Alex Croft Storm Darragh [36] is set to batter parts of the UK with up to 90mph winds, torrential rain, and potential flooding [37] over the weekend. The Met Office [38] has issued a rare red warning for wind, which warns of significant disruption and a "danger to life"[39] for parts of Wales [40] and southwest England [41] on Saturday.

The warning is in place from 3am to 11am on Saturday, covering western and southern coastal regions of Wales and the Bristol Channel in England. Red weather [42] warnings are the most serious type of warning. The Met Office [43] only issues them when meteorologists believe that dangerous, potentially life-threatening weather is expected imminently.

Yellow wind warnings are in place for large parts of the UK on Friday, with amber warnings covering the west coast of England and Wales, as well as Northern Ireland, on Saturday morning. With several weather warnings [44] for wind and rain covering different areas at different times, The Independent has highlighted which areas will be affected. See the affected areas:

Storm Darragh map: When and where UK will be hit by 90mph winds and rain from tonight [45]

Winter Wonderland to close on Saturday

Friday 6 December 2024 18:17 , Alex Croft

Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland will be closed on Saturday due to strong winds, it announced. "In line with the Royal Parks' closure of Hyde Park due to high winds, we will not be opening Hyde Park Winter Wonderland on Saturday 7th December 2024," Winter Wonderland's official X account said. "The safety of our visitors and staff are our top priority and we are sorry for any disappointment caused.

All affected ticket holders have been contacted directly and will have the opportunity to reschedule or refund their tickets. "Hyde Park Winter Wonderland will be open until 5th January 2024 and there is currently plenty of availability throughout the rest of the event. "With better weather forecast on Sunday, we anticipate operating as normal and look forward to welcoming you.

Please keep an eye on our official channels for further updates." Important update for Saturday 7th December. Please keep an eye on our official channels for further updates.

Thank you, HPWW Team x pic.twitter.com/vyWBYuQo9P [46] -- Winter Wonderland (@WinterWonderLDN) December 6, 2024 [47]

Liverpool fans advised to 'remain alert' before match on Saturday

Friday 6 December 2024 18:07 , Alex Croft Liverpool FC has advised its fans to "remain alert" and "take extra care" before their away Merseyside derby fixture at Everton's Goodison Park.

The club said in a statement: "Supporters attending Saturday's Merseyside derby at Goodison Park are advised to allow extra time for travel and remain alert to Met Office weather warnings. "An amber severe wind warning has been issued by the Met Office for Merseyside from 1am GMT on Saturday, with wind gusts of 60mph to 70mph likely. The warning for wind is expected to remain in place until 6am on Sunday.

"Given the weather warning, fans are advised to allow extra time for their journey and take extra care. "Supporters are also advised to keep a close eye on travel and weather guidance in their area to assist with travel planning for the Premier League fixture (12.30pm kick-off)."

Tornadoes possible, says storm research body

Friday 6 December 2024 17:48 , Alex Croft Tornadoes could strike the UK as Storm Darragh prepares to wreak havoc, a storm research body has said.

"Wind gusts to around 70-75mph could accompany the stronger cores, and one or tornadoes are possible too," said the Tornado and Storm Research Organisation (Torro), a privatrely-supported and volunteer-led research body which specialises in severe convective weather in Britain and Ireland. The entirety of Ireland, Wales, and most of England - barring parts of the north and east - are expected to be in affected areas, according to a map published by Torro in its update on Friday afternoon.

Christmas market cancelled due to dangerous winds

Friday 6 December 2024 17:24 , Alex Croft A christmas market in Chiswick has been cancelled as a result of the dangerous winds amid Storm Darragh.

The christmas market was set to offer handmade gifts, jewellery, christmas carols sung by a performing arts choir, and story telling by Santa himself. But the kids booked in with the big red man will have to reschedule their appointments, with heavy winds prompting organisers to call off the festive event. Xanthe Arvanitakis, director of Chiswick House & Gardens Trust, told Chiswick Calendar: "It's really disappointing, but what can we do?

We've been told winds of 40mph are expected, which just makes it too dangerous to open the park." "We have lost that income, but also the stallholders will have lost the opportunity to earn money. We are doing everything we can, we hope the public will understand."

Welsh deputy FM urges residents to take extreme care as red warning issued

Friday 6 December 2024 16:53 , Andy Gregory

Welsh deputy first minister Huw Irranca-Davies has warned there may be very significant impacts from the storm and urged people to take extreme care this weekend. "Red warnings are issued when there is a potential threat to life, and therefore it is essential that people in Wales heed the warnings and take very great care if they are travelling on Saturday," he said. "Welsh local authorities, emergency services and Natural Resources Wales have activated their preparedness structures in readiness for Storm Darragh.

I urge people to make sure they are aware of the warning levels for their local area and to follow all official advice."

What travel disruption is forecast so far?

Friday 6 December 2024 16:22 , Andy Gregory With winds of up to 90mph forecast along some coastal areas, Stena Line said the storm would be "impacting" some ferries over the coming days, and Bristol Airport said disruption was expected. National Rail said the storm is likely to affect services across the whole network, advising people to check their journey in full before travelling as it may mean last services of the day are cancelled and passengers may not reach their destination.

Longleat Safari Park closed on Saturday due to Storm Darragh

Friday 6 December 2024 15:57 , Andy Gregory

If that changes we will update our website and social media." The park is home to 120 species, including aardvarks, elephants, crocodiles, lions and cheetahs.

Longleat Safari and Adventure Park is closing on Saturday (PA Media)

All football in Wales cancelled as Storm Darragh to batter country

Friday 6 December 2024 15:30 , Andy Gregory As Storm Darragh batters the UK, the Football Association of Wales (FAW) has announced that all football matches scheduled for Saturday 7 December have been postponed.

The Met Office has issued its most extreme red weather warning, with Storm Darragh bringing life-threatening 90mph winds in Wales and parts of southwestern England. The FAW have followed advice from the Met Office to call off all Saturday football in the country, with Friday and Sunday matches set to be considered on a case-by-case basis. My colleague Luke Baker has more details here:

All football in Wales cancelled as Storm Darragh to batter country [48]

HM Coastguard issues warning over dangerously large waves

Friday 6 December 2024 15:10 , Andy Gregory

HM Coastguard has issued a warning to stay well away from the coast as winds are expected to reach up to 90mph in areas with exposed coastlines. Winds in parts of Wales and South-West England are expected to reach 90mph in areas with exposed coastline. Stay well away from the water, large waves can knock you off your feet and take you out to sea.

If you're in trouble, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.#StormDarragh https://t.co/7Y1QVoPTlE [49][50] -- HM Coastguard (@HMCoastguard) December 6, 2024 [51]

Storm Darragh: How to prepare as Met Office warns strong winds set to batter UK

Friday 6 December 2024 14:51 , Andy Gregory The Met Office has issued guidance on how to protect yourself from strong winds which includes protecting your property from damage and people from injury.

Forecasters advise that you make sure any loose items such as bins, pots, garden furniture, and trampolines have been safely secured, with any shed and garage doors locked. If you live near the coast, make sure to check the forecasts and be careful if walking near cliffs, ensuring any dogs are kept on a lead. You should also make sure you plan your route before setting off, by listening for travel updates and checking for road closures and delays, the Met Office says.

Make sure you take a fully charged mobile phone and keep any essentials such as warm clothing and a torch in your car. You can

Storm Darragh: How to prepare as strong winds set to batter UK [52]

What is a red weather warning and why do the Met Office issue them?

Friday 6 December 2024 14:32 , Andy Gregory Red is the most serious weather warning the Met Office can issue.

It means dangerous weather is expected and people are urged to take action to keep themselves and others safe. Met Office spokesman Grahame Madge said red warnings are given based on "the impact, not the severity" of the weather. Red warnings are issued "relatively infrequently", according to the Met Office.

The last red warning in the UK was issued in January for winds in north-east Scotland. Gusts of up to 99mph from Storm Isha killed two people and left tens of thousands of homes without power. Since the Met Office began issuing red warnings in 2011, there have been 20, with typically one or two a year.

You can

What is a red weather warning and why do the Met Office issue them?[53]

Highly unusual red weather warning should be heeded, RAC warns

Friday 6 December 2024 14:13 , Andy Gregory RAC spokesperson Alice Simpson said: "A red weather warning is highly unusual and should be heeded as it can indicate a risk to life. "With parts of Wales and the South West set to be battered by the wind between 3am and 11am on Saturday, we strongly advise drivers to postpone their journeys if they can.

"We also suggest parking well away from large trees due to the danger of falling branches or whole trees being uprooted."

What weather can UK expect in wake of Storm Darragh?

Friday 6 December 2024 13:53 , Andy Gregory According to the Met Office, colder northly winds will move across the UK behind Storm Darragh - bringing a risk of overnight frosts and the chance of some wintry showers mostly over high ground on Sunday. The national forecaster said: "As we go through Monday high pressure becomes centred over the UK and conditions become much more settled with an increasing risk of overnight frost and fog, especially in northern parts of the UK."

National Highways issues travel advice for motorists

Friday 6 December 2024 13:35 , Andy Gregory

Dale Hipkiss, duty manager at National Highways, said: "If you're planning to drive over the next few days, prepare in advance for the journey and take extra care on the roads. "If weather conditions become challenging, adjust your driving behaviour to manage the conditions as safely as possible. "It's also a good idea for drivers to check their vehicles, such as tyres, coolant and oil levels, before heading out to reduce the risk of breakdowns."

'Change plans accordingly' if in red alert area, suggests Met Office forecaster

Friday 6 December 2024 13:17 , Andy Gregory

Change your plans accordingly if in an area subject to red or amber warnings, a Met Office forecaster has advised. Meteorlogist Alex Deakin said: "The main advice, particularly if you're in the amber or red area, is just think about what your plans are for this weekend and change them accordingly. "But even if you're in the yellow warning area there are going to be issues with lots of people out and about, it's a Saturday before Christmas, so again just think about what your plans are, make sure you're across the warnings.

They're being tweaked all the time."

References

^ Wales (www.independent.co.uk)
^ Storm Darragh making landfall on Saturday morning (uk.news.yahoo.com)
^ "flying debris, falling trees and large waves around coastal areas" (uk.news.yahoo.com)
^ Everton (www.independent.co.uk)
^ Liverpool (www.independent.co.uk)
^ Everton (www.independent.co.uk)
^ Liverpool (www.independent.co.uk)
^ set to batter the UK (www.independent.co.uk)
^ host their city rivals (uk.sports.yahoo.com)
^ Goodison Park (www.independent.co.uk)
^ Premier League (www.independent.co.uk)
^ their long-awaited new stadium (uk.sports.yahoo.com)
^ Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool called off as Storm Darragh batters UK (uk.sports.yahoo.com)
^ Storm Darragh batters the UK (www.independent.co.uk)
^ Wales (www.independent.co.uk)
^ FAW (www.independent.co.uk)
^ Met Office (www.independent.co.uk)
^ extreme red weather warning (www.independent.co.uk)
^ in Wales and parts of southwestern England. (www.independent.co.uk)
^ All football in Wales cancelled as Storm Darragh to batter country (uk.sports.yahoo.com)
^ warning (www.independent.co.uk)
^ Met Office (www.independent.co.uk)
^ gusts of wind reaching 90mph between 3am to 11am on Saturday (www.independent.co.uk)
^ large waves and beach material could be thrown onto coastal roads and seafronts. (www.independent.co.uk)
^ Storm Darragh: How to prepare as strong winds set to batter UK (uk.news.yahoo.com)
^ your property (www.metoffice.gov.uk)
^ Emergency government alert sent to millions with Storm Darragh set to endanger life (uk.news.yahoo.com)
^ Met Office (www.independent.co.uk)
^ weather warning (www.independent.co.uk)
^ weather (www.independent.co.uk)
^ What is a red weather warning and why do the Met Office issue them? (www.independent.co.uk)
^ England (Environment Agency) (check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk)
^ Scotland (Scottish Environment Protection Agency) (floodline.sepa.org.uk)
^ Wales (Natural Resources Wales) (flood-warning.naturalresources.wales)
^ From Babet to Walid: How and why storms get their names (www.independent.co.uk)
^ Storm Darragh (uk.news.yahoo.com)
^ potential flooding (uk.news.yahoo.com)
^ Met Office (www.independent.co.uk)
^ significant disruption and a "danger to life" (www.independent.co.uk)
^ Wales (www.independent.co.uk)
^ England (www.independent.co.uk)
^ weather (www.independent.co.uk)
^ Met Office (www.independent.co.uk)
^ weather warnings (www.independent.co.uk)
^ Storm Darragh map: When and where UK will be hit by 90mph winds and rain from tonight (www.independent.co.uk)
^ pic.twitter.com/vyWBYuQo9P (t.co)
^ December 6, 2024 (twitter.com)
^ All football in Wales cancelled as Storm Darragh to batter country (uk.sports.yahoo.com)
^ #StormDarragh (twitter.com)
^ https://t.co/7Y1QVoPTlE (t.co)
^ December 6, 2024 (twitter.com)
^ Storm Darragh: How to prepare as strong winds set to batter UK (uk.news.yahoo.com)
^ What is a red weather warning and why do the Met Office issue them? (www.independent.co.uk)