Residents of Portsmouth, Hampshire, and the broader South East are being urged to prepare for severe weather as a yellow warning for wind has been issued by the Met Office. Gusts reaching up to 75mph are expected to batter the region on New Year’s Day, bringing with them the potential for widespread disruption.
The warning will be in place from 9am on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, until 6am on Thursday, January 2, affecting coastal areas and inland locations alike. The strong winds are attributed to a deep area of low pressure moving across the UK from the west.
What to Expect
The Met Office stated:
“A deep area of low pressure is expected to cross the UK from the west, bringing a spell of very strong winds. Gusts of 65-75 mph are likely around coasts and hills, especially in the south and west, with 50-60 mph gusts likely fairly widely inland.”
Residents are warned to secure outdoor items and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary, as falling debris, downed trees, and power outages are all potential hazards.
Impacts on Travel
Travel disruptions are anticipated across road, rail, and ferry networks:
- Roads: Drivers, particularly those in high-sided vehicles, should exercise caution when traveling on exposed routes.
- Rail: Train services may be delayed or canceled due to debris on tracks and adverse conditions.
- Ferries: Coastal crossings may experience significant delays or cancellations, and rough seas are expected.
Safety Measures
Emergency services are advising people in affected areas to:
- Secure garden furniture, bins, and other loose items to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
- Avoid walking near large trees or construction sites.
- Stay indoors during peak wind hours if possible.
