New Met Office Warning for Devon as Storm Eowyn Approaches This Week

Plymouth: The Met Office has issued new weather warnings for the South West. They expect severe weather to hit soon. Initially, they warned of 70mph winds on Friday. But now, they’re saying gale-force winds will arrive on Thursday. Heavy rain will follow right after.

Starting at 7am tomorrow, a yellow wind warning kicks in. Gusts could reach 60mph in coastal areas and hills. This warning lasts until 6pm and covers all of Cornwall, Plymouth, and most of Dartmoor and North Devon.

The Met Office mentioned a band of heavy rain moving from west to east on Thursday. This will bring strong winds for about 4-5 hours. Winds could hit 50-60 mph over exposed coasts and hills. The winds will ease in the afternoon for western areas, but eastern areas will see stronger winds later.

On Friday, Storm Éowyn is expected to bring even worse weather. Winds could reach 80mph in some spots, along with up to 60mm of rain. The heavy rain will move northeast later Thursday night, clearing by Friday morning.

They expect 15-25 mm of rain widely, with up to 40-60 mm over high ground. This could lead to surface water flooding in some areas.

A wind warning is in effect from midnight Friday, covering the entire South West. The rain warning lasts from midnight to 9am. The Met Office warns that coastal routes and communities might face spray and large waves.

Some bus and train services could be delayed, and there might be short-term power outages. High-sided vehicles may also face delays on exposed routes and bridges.

Mike Silverstone, Deputy Chief Meteorologist, said Storm Éowyn will bring very unsettled weather. The strongest gusts will likely hit Northern Ireland, northern England, northwestern Wales, and western Scotland. These areas could see gusts over 80mph, causing disruptions.

He emphasized the importance of staying updated with the forecast as more details will emerge in the coming days.