Gales of up to 75mph are forecast tonight as the first storm of the season to be given a name hits Greater Manchester.
Storm Aileen is due to arrive at around 5pm this evening, with the worst of the winds hitting between midnight and tomorrow morning and particularly affecting North Wales, southern parts of Northern England, the North Midlands and Norfolk.
A Yellow weather warning for rain is also in place for the North West, where anywhere between 30 and 40mm of rain could fall within 6-9 hours.
Chief forecaster Frank Saunders said: “Storm Aileen is expected to bring strong winds of up to 75mph to a central segment of the UK and an Amber weather warning has been issued. As well as the strong winds, there will be some heavy rain pushing eastwards overnight which could see accumulations of 30-40mm.
#StormAileen has officially been named & will bring severe gales to central parts of the UK. More here https://t.co/b5tJBGZGiT #WeatherAware pic.twitter.com/1OoA7zIYNY
— Met Office (@metoffice) September 12, 2017
“The low pressure system that is bringing these strong winds will move fairly swiftly from west to east over the UK and although there will still be some disruption through Wednesday morning, the winds will ease by the afternoon leaving a day of blustery showers.”
The weather is likely to increase journey times across all modes of transport, with damage to trees and restrictions on roads and bridges possible.
John Fryer, TfGM’s Transport and Event Planning Lead, said: “We advise all passengers to take extra care tonight and tomorrow when you’re out and about, no matter what form of transport you use.
“Please plan ahead and allow more time for your journey as disruption to journey times is likely.
“Follow TfGM’s social media channels and check with your operator for the latest travel and transport updates.”
