Storm Amy Brings Disruption Across the UK and Ireland
Storm Amy, the first named storm of the season, is causing widespread disruption across the UK and Ireland. The storm has led to school closures, travel delays, and the postponement of sporting events. Weather warnings are in place for the entire UK, with the strongest winds expected in northern and western regions.
Storm Development and Characteristics
Storm Amy developed in the North Atlantic due to interactions from the remnants of hurricanes Humberto and Imelda with a strong jet stream. It has rapidly intensified, undergoing explosive cyclogenesis, characterized by a significant drop in central pressure.
- Explosive cyclogenesis occurs when the central pressure drops 24mb or more over 24 hours.
- Gusts in the north and west of Scotland may reach 60mph to 70mph, potentially close to 100mph in exposed locations.
Impact on Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland is experiencing significant impacts from Storm Amy. Schools in Counties Antrim, Londonderry, Tyrone, and Fermanagh were advised to close early on Friday. An amber weather warning is in place for parts of Northern Ireland, indicating a higher danger to life.
- A yellow wind warning is in place for all of Northern Ireland from 2pm on Friday to midday on Saturday.
- An amber wind warning applies to Counties Antrim, Fermanagh, Tyrone and Derry from 3pm to 8pm on Friday.
- The PSNI advises considering the necessity of travel and taking extra care if travel is unavoidable.
Disruption in Scotland
Scotland is also heavily impacted by Storm Amy. ScotRail has announced closures of several railway lines in northern Scotland, with speed restrictions in place on other routes. The United Rugby Championship match between Edinburgh and Ulster has been postponed.
- An amber warning for "damaging winds" is in place for the north and west of Scotland.
- Junior events for the Great Scottish Run in Glasgow on Saturday have been cancelled.
Weather Warnings and Forecasts
Several weather warnings are in place across the UK. Amber warnings for damaging winds are in effect for parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland. Yellow warnings for rain cover swathes of Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England. On Saturday, weather warnings cover the whole of the UK.
The Met Office warns of potential dangers including:
- Danger to life
- Power cuts
- Damage to buildings
- Travel disruption
- Localised flooding
- Large waves at the coast
Gusts will widely reach 60mph to 70mph, higher on coasts and hills, potentially close to 100mph in some very exposed spots. Heavy rain will be an additional hazard, spreading eastwards on Friday, with localised flooding possible.
Travel and Safety Advice
Multiple ferry sailings between Cairnryan in Scotland, and Northern Ireland have been cancelled. Passengers are advised to check with ferry companies for updates. The RNLI urges the public to avoid rough seas, cliff edges, and exposed waterside areas.
"If you plan to visit the coast or a waterside location, we advise that you stay a safe distance from the water as conditions could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea or water. A visit during weather conditions such as these is not worth risking your life for." - Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI Water Safety Lead
The PSNI also advises road users to reduce their speed and avoid driving through flood water.
Storm Naming Convention
Storms are named to improve public awareness and readiness. The names are chosen from public suggestions, aiming to ensure the public takes warnings seriously and stays safe during severe weather.
Weather Warning Summary
| Warning Type | Area | Valid From | Valid Until |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wind: Yellow | All of Northern Ireland | 2pm Friday | 12 noon Saturday |
| Wind: Amber | Counties Antrim, Fermanagh, Londonderry, Tyrone | 3pm Friday | 8pm Friday |
| Rain: Yellow | All of Northern Ireland | 11am Friday | 5pm Friday |
