The South West braces for Storm Ciarán
Disruption is expected across the region as the bad weather comes in
Last updated 1st Nov 2023
Storm Ciarán has arrived in the South West - and it's causing disruption:
Rail operators in the south of England are warning passengers to avoid travelling if possible, ahead of Storm Ciarán.
The Met Office has issued amber weather warnings with winds of 110 miles per hour expected in some areas.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Brent Walker, said “Wind and rain warnings associated with Storm Ciarán are in force from tonight through until Friday, with further updates possible. These include Amber warnings for wind for parts of southwest England on Thursday morning and the far south and southeast of England Thursday daytime and early evening.
“Very strong winds are expected along southern coastal areas of England in particular, where gusts of 70 to 80mph are possible, perhaps exceeding 85 mph in a few exposed locations. Further inland, gusts could reach up to 50 or 60mph.
“As well as strong winds, there will be heavy rain across many parts of the UK. Much of southern and western England, Wales, northeast England and eastern Scotland look to see the wettest conditions between Wednesday evening and Friday morning. 20-30 mm of rain is likely to fall quite widely, with 40-60 mm possible over higher ground. Some parts of Wales and southwest England may see 80 mm of rain. This rain will fall on already saturated ground, bringing the risk of flooding.”
Advice from the emergency services
The South Western Ambulance Service is urging people to only dial 999 in an emergency as the bad weather continues.
They've reminded people to stay away from coastal areas, not drive through floodwater and to be aware of flying debris in the strong winds.
Devon and Cornwall's Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez has posted on X saying "Take care if you’re out and about please on foot or in a vehicle."
The warning from Avon Fire and Rescue includes only making journeys that are essential.
Schools announce closures
Many schools across the South West have announced they'll be closed tomorrow (2nd November) including more than 170 in Devon alone.
Find out if your child's school is closed here:
What transport is affected in the South West?
Amy Shaw, National Network Manager at National Highways, said: “It is important to plan ahead for your journey during Storm Ciaran, and if weather conditions become challenging, adjust your driving behaviour and take extra care. National Highways reminds motorists to keep TRIP in mind ahead of journeys at this time of year – Top-up: oil, water, screen wash; Rest: rest every two hours; Inspect: Inspect tyres and lights and Prepare: check your route and the weather forecast.”
There are also problems on the trains, with Great Western Railway cancelling all trains in Cornwall from 8pm onwards, Network Rail have issued warnings and advice to all travellers, and CrossCountry trains are also affected.
Travel Somerset's confirmed planned works are being deferred so they can deal with the Storm Ciarán as it unfolds overnight.
Bristol Airport is urging passengers to check before travelling due to the high winds expected over the next day or so.
Events have been cancelled
Across the South West, events have been called off due to the storm.
Among them is a planned fireworks display at Weston-super-Mare Pier - with organisers apologising.
A spokesperson for the Pier says they've spoken to the team that puts on the display, saying "They have raised concerns regarding the current unsettled weather conditions sweeping across the UK and the unpredictable direction and speed of the wind, deeming it unsafe for the general public to enjoy the display."