UK weather latest updates: Storm Agnes is ‘intensifying quickly’, warns Met Office

Storm Agnes is “intensifying quickly” and will hit the UK and Ireland with damaging winds and big stormy seas, the Met Office has said.

Meteorologist Tom Morgan said: “Storm Agnes is now very much intensifying quickly about 1,000 miles or so away from the south-west of England, in the Atlantic Ocean, and it’s moving quickly north-eastwards towards the UK.”

He said the storm’s main impact will be strong winds and large waves.

“We are likely to potentially see some damaging winds, the possibility of some brief power interruptions, particularly in Irish sea coastal areas,” he continued.

The storm is currently around 300 miles north of the island of Terceira in the Azores region, and moving quickly in Britain’s direction.

It is due to impact British weather by tomorrow, where Britons should expect heavy rain and up to 80mph winds in some coastal areas.

Three yellow warnings have been issued for Wednesday so far, including two for rain and one for wind, with one remaining in place until Thursday morning. A danger to life warning was also issued by the forecaster for Wednesday and Thursday.

Key Points

  • Met Office say storm will ‘rapidly intensify’ over the next day

  • Which regions will Storm Agnes affect?

  • Met Office yellow weather warnings map

  • UK weather forecast for today

  • Storm Agnes expected to diminish on Thursday, says Met office

  • ‘Violent winds’ could develop tonight as Storm Agnes hits, Met Office warns

Weather warnings activated as Storm Agnes arrives in Ireland

10:15 , Athena Stavrou

Weather warnings have been activated as Storm Agnes arrives in Ireland.

Strong winds were reported in County Cork at 9am, with the storm expected to arrive in Northern Ireland at lunchtime. In the Republic of Ireland a status orange wind warning is in place in several counties and both Met Eireann and the Met Office have warned of the possibility of disruption to travel.

A status yellow warning for rain is also in place across large areas in Ireland. In Northern Ireland a yellow warning for rain is in place until 8pm on Wednesday, with a yellow warning for high winds.

The storm, which is the first named storm of the season, is forecast to bring strong and disruptive winds until Thursday morning.

The Met Office has warned this could lead to an increased risk of flooding as the storm continues to push north and east.

Storm Agnes caught on camera arriving in Ireland

10:30 , Athena Stavrou

As Storm Agnes arrives on the south coast of Ireland, people have taken to social media to post footage of the extreme weather.

One video, filmed in Clonakilty Bay, shows extreme wind accompanied by heavy rain arrive at the Irish shore.

Agnes ‘expected’ to bring travel disruption

10:00 , Athena Stavrou

A spokesperson for Transport Scotland said it is ‘expected’ that Agnes will bring some ‘disruption to the transport network’.

It comes as the Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for wind across the UK today and say transpoty disruption is ‘likely’.

Stein Connelly from Transport Scotland said: “Storm Agnes is the first storm of the year and it’s expected to bring some disruption to the transport network, so we’d ask people who are looking to travel to plan their journeys ahead of time.

“The conditions could also lead to disruption on other modes of transport, so if you’re planning to travel by train, ferry or air, you should check with your operator to see if your service is affected.”

Disruption on the transport network is ‘expected’ (Getty Images)
Disruption on the transport network is ‘expected’ (Getty Images)

Met Office warns of winds 'quickly strengthening’ in today’s forecast

09:30 , Athena Stavrou

The Met Office have warned of “winds quickly strengthening’ in today’s morning forecast.

In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter: “A calm start to Wednesday morning with any mist and low cloud soon lifting giving bright or sunny skies for many.

“Winds quickly strengthening in the west as #StormAgnes approaches bringing bands of rain, turning heaviest and most persistent across Northern Ireland.”

Highway officials says to ‘adjust driving’ as Storm Agnes looms

09:00 , Athena Stavrou

A spokesperson at National Highways has warned British drivers to “adjust” their driving behaviour ahead of Storm Agnes.

Steve Basterfield, national network manager at National Highways, said: “With the stormy weather being forecast, it is important to plan ahead for your journey, and if weather conditions become challenging, adjust your driving behaviour and take extra care.

“We have a section of our website dedicated to travelling amid storms, high winds and gales, and considerations for different types of vehicle, as part of our guide to travelling in severe weather. It’s also a good idea for people to check their vehicles, such as tyres, coolant and oil levels, before heading out to reduce the risk of breakdowns.”

“Adjust your driving behaviour”, says highway manager (PA)
“Adjust your driving behaviour”, says highway manager (PA)

Storm Agnes to bring 75mph winds to the UK today

08:27 , Athena Stavrou

As Storm Agnes is set to arrive to the UK today Britain is bracing for 75mph winds and torrential rain.

Three yellow warnings have been issued for Wednesday so far, including two for rain and one for wind, with one remaining in place until Thursday morning. A danger to life warning was also issued by the forecaster for Wednesday and Thursday.

Last night, the Met Office said the storm was ‘intensifying quickly’ as it made it’s way over the Atlantic Ocean towards the UK.

The Met Office warned that some coastal areas are due to see winds of over 75 mph, while places inland will may experience gusts of up to 60mph. They say that these are most likely during the second half of Wednesday afternoon and through the evening.

People in Scotland will also see heavy rain in ‘many parts’ of the country, with flood alerts and warnings being “issued as necessary”.

Strong winds and heavy rain are set to batter the UK (Jacob King/PA) (PA Wire)
Strong winds and heavy rain are set to batter the UK (Jacob King/PA) (PA Wire)

Storm Agnes to cause 'dangerous conditions' on coasts around UK and Ireland

07:30 , Stuti Mishra

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has said that Storm Agnes was likely to cause dangerous conditions on the coasts around the UK and Ireland as heavy rain and winds are set to lash both countries.

“The RNLI advises staying a safe distance away from the water and cliff edges as the conditions could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea. It is not worth risking your life," Sam Hughes, an RNLI water safety partner, said.

“If you see someone else in danger in the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. If you have something that floats that they can hold on to, throw it to them. Don’t go in the water yourself – you may end up in difficulty too.”

Storm tracker: When will Storm Agnes reach UK and what will be its path?

07:00 , Stuti Mishra

Storm Agnes will start impacting the UK this afternoon as it crosses through the northwest and then northern regions.

“The storm centre itself remains over the Atlantic and will continue approaching and cross the UK through Wednesday afternoon and will move away Wednesday night into Thursday,” Oli Claydon, a spokesperson for Met Office, said.

“In terms of most impacted areas, we’re looking at the Irish Sea coasts, so south-eastern parts of Northern Ireland, west and north-western coasts of Wales, and the north-western coast of England.”

The storm could cause power cuts, blow tiles from roofs and disrupt railways and roads, the Met Office warned on its website.

Mr Claydon also said the storm could knock over trees and disrupt the Irish Sea ferry network.

Here is the path of the storm:

Storm Agnes path from Wednesday to Thursday (Met Office)
Storm Agnes path from Wednesday to Thursday (Met Office)

UK weather forecast today

06:30 , Stuti Mishra

The Met Office is predicting an initially dry and bright start to the day as Storm Agnes is set to arrive from the west by the afternoon.

The storm will bring heavy rain and strong winds, prompting yellow weather warnings in large parts of the UK.

The north is set to be battered by rain while a warning for heavy gusts of wind covers Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales as well as the south-west of England, the West Midlands and most of the north of England.

The forecaster said disruptions like flooding and some localised damage are likely.

However, the southeast will escape the worst and may remain relatively drier, with lighter winds. Temperatures there are expected to be above normal for this time of year.

The rain and strong wind is forecast to stay overnight, especially across the north, as Storm Agnes continues to moves northeastwards.

The south will begin to turn drier with winds easing.

On Thursday the storm will start to diminish, the forecaster says. The day will start largely dry with possibilities of some bright spells. However, heavy showers will arrive from the west in the late afternoon and evening as another yellow warning is in place for the north.

Western coasts will continue to feel breezy.

Flood risk in Scotland amid Storm Agnes

06:00 , Stuti Mishra

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) has warned the rain brought by Storm Agnes could cause flooding.

“Flooding impacts are possible, particularly in south-west and central areas (of Scotland). Along the south-west coast, we may see waves overtopping and flooding of causeways, promenades, properties and roads," the agency said.

“Impacts are expected to be localised and around high tide. We may also see minor flooding impacts from surface water and rivers. Flood alerts and warnings are being issued as necessary and we continue to work with the Met Office to monitor the situation 24/7.”

List of yellow warnings in place

05:30 , Stuti Mishra

There are two yellow warnings in place for rain and one for wind due to Storm Agnes today and tomorrow.

The two yellow rain warnings cover areas of Scotland and the Met Office has said there could be up to 60mm of rain.

One warning covers central Scotland, from the north of Glasgow across towards Aberdeen. A second yellow rain warning is in place in the far south-west of Scotland. Both weather alerts are in place between 3pm on Wednesday through to midnight.

The Met Office has also issued a yellow wind weather warning covering the period from midday on Wednesday to 7am on Thursday, stretching across Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales as well as the south-west of England, the West Midlands and most of the north of England.

Latest weather pictures ahead of Storm Agnes

05:00 , Stuti Mishra

Strong winds and heavy rain are set to batter the UK as Storm Agnes sweeps across the country (PA)
Strong winds and heavy rain are set to batter the UK as Storm Agnes sweeps across the country (PA)
People walk by Centenary Square in Birmingham during a rainy morning. (PA)
People walk by Centenary Square in Birmingham during a rainy morning. (PA)
Surfers make the most of the conditions at Sandy Bay in Porthcawl, Wales (PA)
Surfers make the most of the conditions at Sandy Bay in Porthcawl, Wales (PA)
People walk by Centenary Square in Birmingham during a rainy morning (PA)
People walk by Centenary Square in Birmingham during a rainy morning (PA)
A cyclist travels through Centenary Square in Birmingham during a rainy morning (PA)
A cyclist travels through Centenary Square in Birmingham during a rainy morning (PA)
Heavy rain falls ahead of the UEFA Europa League Group A match at the London Stadium, London (PA)
Heavy rain falls ahead of the UEFA Europa League Group A match at the London Stadium, London (PA)

What is Storm Agnes?

04:00 , Martha Mchardy

Storm Agnes is a deep area of low pressure developing in the Atlantic.

According to forecasters, it is likely to move in from the southwest on Wednesday and move up through the Irish Sea to northern areas of the UK throughout the day.

Storm Agnes expected to diminish on Thursday, says Met office

03:00 , Martha Mchardy

Storm Agnes’s influence on UK weather is expected to diminish later on Thursday as it weakens and moves further north, the Met Office said.

Rain will then move into southern areas late on Thursday and into Friday, with some heavy bursts possible for some areas of England and Wales.

But as we head into the weekend, a ridge of high pressure from the south is expected to bring a period of more settled weather, though some showers could continue in northern and western areas for a time.

Danger to life warnings issued by Met Office as 80mph winds set to batter Britons

02:00 , Martha Mchardy

The Met Office has issued danger-to-life weather warnings as 80mph winds are set to batter the UK.

A yellow warning has been put in place across the majority of the UK from 10am on Wednesday until 7am on Thursday, spanning from the southwest of England, across to Northern Ireland and up to Inverness.

Gale force winds across swathes of the country could result in travel disruption, damage to buildings and even power cuts.

Eleanor Noyce reports:

Danger to life warnings issued by Met Office as 80mph winds set to batter Britons

RECAP: Met Office issues yellow wind weather warning for most of Britain

01:00 , Martha Mchardy

Most of Britain is under a Met Office severe weather warning as strong winds and heavy rain from Storm Agnes are forecast to cause flooding, power cuts and fallen trees.

The first named storm of the season is expected to batter the UK on Wednesday with winds of up to 75mph and cause dangerous conditions along coastlines.

The Met Office has issued a yellow wind weather warning from midday on Wednesday to 7am on Thursday, stretching across Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.

Jacob Phillips reports:

Met Office issues weather warnings ahead of Storm Agnes

Mapped: Which parts of the UK will Storm Agnes hit?

Wednesday 27 September 2023 00:00 , Martha Mchardy

The Met Office has issued danger to life warnings as 80mph winds prepare to batter the UK (Met Office/screengrab)
The Met Office has issued danger to life warnings as 80mph winds prepare to batter the UK (Met Office/screengrab)

How did Agnes get her name?

Tuesday 26 September 2023 23:00 , Martha Mchardy

Storm Agnes is the first named storm of the storm naming season, which runs from September to August the following year.

In the UK, a decision to name a storm is based on strength of winds and the resulting impacts. The decision is made by the chief meteorologist at the Met Office in collaboration with other weather organisations in northern Europe.

The Met Office, in partnership with Met Éireann (Irish Met Office) and The Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI), announced a new list of storm names for this years storm naming season. The Met Office say that naming storms helps to communicate the risks of severe weather.

It was decided that Agnes, Babet and Ciarán will be the first three named storms.

Which parts of the UK have yellow weather warnings?

Tuesday 26 September 2023 22:00 , Martha Mchardy

The following regions have yellow alerts in place for strong winds from 3pm on Wednesday until 7am on Thursday.

  • South West England

  • Wales

  • Birmingham and the West Midlands

  • Nottingham and the East Midlands

  • Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire

  • Manchester and the North West

  • North East England

  • Scotland

  • Northern Ireland

There are two further warnings in place for rain in South West Scotland and for Argyll, Perth and parts of Aberdeenshire on Wednesday afternoon.

Storm Agnes is “intensifying quickly”, says Met Office

Tuesday 26 September 2023 21:49 , Martha Mchardy

Storm Agnes is “intensifying quickly” and will hit the UK and Ireland with damaging winds and big stormy seas, the Met Office has said.

It issued a string of weather warnings ahead of the arrival of the first named storm of the season on Wednesday.

It is expected to generate winds of up to 75mph and cause dangerous conditions along coastlines, especially Irish Sea coastlines.

Meteorologist Tom Morgan told the PA news agency: “Storm Agnes is now very much intensifying quickly about 1,000 miles or so away from the south-west of England, in the Atlantic Ocean, and it’s moving quickly north-eastwards towards the UK.”

He said the storm’s main impact will be strong winds and large waves.

“We are likely to potentially see some damaging winds, the possibility of some brief power interruptions, particularly in Irish sea coastal areas,” Mr Morgan told PA.

“So Northern Ireland, north-west England, west Wales, and south-west Scotland, that’s where we’ll probably see gusts of up to 75mph tomorrow afternoon, tomorrow evening, that’s when the peak of the winds will be and then Storm Agnes will move across Scotland clearing away from Shetland through Thursday morning.”

He added: “In addition to the winds, there’s going to be some large waves as well, so some big stormy seas, and therefore there might well be some coastal flooding where the waves break on to promenades and on to coastal roads.”

How to protect your home during Storm Agnes

Tuesday 26 September 2023 21:00 , Martha Mchardy

Suzy Tiffany, Claims Director at MORE THAN, said: “The impact of storms can be unpredictable, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions. With Storm Agnes expected to arrive in the UK on Wednesday, there are some steps homeowners could take to protect their home, just in case.

“Firstly, it’s worth checking around your house and garden and storing away or securing any loose objects to prevent them from being picked up by the wind and causing damage to your home. This might include plant pots, garden furniture and trampolines.

“Any weak or loose branches can also easily snap off during heavy winds and cause damage to your home, so consider removing these if you can do so safely. If any weak areas are too tricky to manage yourself, it’s important not to do anything that might cause injury – instead try and enlist the help of a tree specialist as soon as possible.

“Storms also commonly cause damage to roofs and chimneys, so make sure you get these areas checked for any weak-spots, such as cracks or missing tiles, on an annual basis. You can carry out checks yourself from the ground or hire an expert who can conduct a thorough check for you.

“If you spot any problems immediately before a storm, try and find an expert to get them fixed as soon as possible. But if no experts are available at short notice, try and move any treasured items away from that area of the house, just in case.”

Storm Agnes is expected to bring heavy rain and winds up of to 80mph to the UK on Wednesday. The Met Office has issued a danger to life warning.

Britons brave the strong winds and heavy rain

Tuesday 26 September 2023 20:00 , Martha Mchardy

Commuters were pictured braving the strong winds and heavy rain this morning in Birmingham, as the UK prepared for Storm Agnes’ arrival on Wednesday.

A wet morning in Centenary Square, Birmingham (PA)
A wet morning in Centenary Square, Birmingham (PA)
The Met Office say the storm will ‘rapidly intensify’ in the next 18 hours (PA)
The Met Office say the storm will ‘rapidly intensify’ in the next 18 hours (PA)
The storm is currently around 300 miles north of the island of Terceira in the Azores region, and is rapidly moving towards the UK. (PA)
The storm is currently around 300 miles north of the island of Terceira in the Azores region, and is rapidly moving towards the UK. (PA)

Parts of the UK could face gale-force winds tonight as Storm Agnes hits

Tuesday 26 September 2023 19:00 , Martha Mchardy

Parts of the UK could face gale-force winds tonight as Storm Agnes hits, according to the Met Office.

Met Office forecast Greg Dewhurst said: “For the rest of today we’ve got showery rain pushing eastwards across parts of Scotland, it could be heavy at times, maybe thundery. Elsewhere a mixture of sunny spells and scattered showers.

“Showers again on the heavy side for Northern Ireland and northern England, fewer and further between further south. There is a brisk south westerly wind already so gusts could reach gale force along some western coasts. That does mean the showers should move through fairly quickly.”

Storm Agnes to bring ‘very rough seas'

Tuesday 26 September 2023 18:40 , Martha Mchardy

Storm Agnes is set to bring “very rough seas” and “large waves” to the UK, according to the Met Office.

The Met Office warned some coastal areas are at risk of flooding and some ferry services may be disrupted as Storm Agnes brings 80mph winds and heavy rain to the UK on Wednesday.

Earlier today, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) warned that Storm Agnes could cause flooding.

A yellow warning has been put in place across the majority of the UK from 10am on Wednesday until 7am on Thursday, spanning from the southwest of England, across to Northern Ireland and up to Inverness.

There are two further warnings in place for rain in South West Scotland and for Argyll, Perth and parts of Aberdeenshire on Wednesday afternoon.

The Met Office has also issued a threat to life warning for areas affected by Storm Agnes.

‘Violent winds’ could develop tonight as Storm Agnes hits, Met Office warns

Tuesday 26 September 2023 17:54 , Martha Mchardy

The Met Office has warned “violent winds” may develop tonight in parts of the UK as Storm Agnes hits.

The storm is now undergoing “explosive cyclogenesis”, the Met Office said, as it heads for the UK tonight.

This occurs when there’s a rapid fall of pressure inside the centre of the low pressure.

“This can lead to violent winds developing,” the Met Office said.

Storm Agnes is expected to bring heavy rain and winds up of to 80mph to the UK on Wednesday. The Met Office has issued a danger to life warning.

The last week of weather in pictures

Tuesday 26 September 2023 17:00 , Athena Stavrou

As Storm Agnes is set to hit the UK by Wednesday, Britons have had little time to recover from Hurricane Lee and Nigel.

Last week, the UK saw extreme weather bring torrential rain, flood warnings and cancel train services.

Here is what last week looked like in pictures:

The London Fire Brigade received ‘numerous calls’ about flooding in parts of London (London Fire Brigade)
The London Fire Brigade received ‘numerous calls’ about flooding in parts of London (London Fire Brigade)
Hurricane Nigel initially formed in the centre of the Atlantic on Saturday but quickly picked up power, developing into a Category 1 hurricane. (Aaron Chown/PA Wire)
Hurricane Nigel initially formed in the centre of the Atlantic on Saturday but quickly picked up power, developing into a Category 1 hurricane. (Aaron Chown/PA Wire)
One social media user said that he expected “to hear sirens wailing very soon” following a downpour of rain over his south London home last week (PA)
One social media user said that he expected “to hear sirens wailing very soon” following a downpour of rain over his south London home last week (PA)
One social media user joked she “wasn’t sure whether to run or swim” around the streets of London, while another compared it to “monsoon weather” in Croydon. (Getty Images)
One social media user joked she “wasn’t sure whether to run or swim” around the streets of London, while another compared it to “monsoon weather” in Croydon. (Getty Images)

Storm could cause flooding - Scottish Environment Protection Agency

Tuesday 26 September 2023 16:10 , Athena Stavrou

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has warned that Storm Agnes could cause flooding.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning in central Scotland, from the north of Glasgow across towards Aberdeen.

A second yellow rain warning is in place in the far south-west of Scotland.

Both weather alerts are in place between 3pm on Wednesday through to midnight.

SEPA flood duty manager David Morgan said: “Flooding impacts are possible, particularly in south-west and central areas (of Scotland). Along the south-west coast, we may see wave overtopping and flooding of causeways, promenades, properties and roads.

“Impacts are expected to be localised and around high tide. We may also see minor flooding impacts from surface water and rivers. Flood Alerts and Warnings are being issued as necessary and we continue to work with the Met Office to monitor the situation 24/7.”

Met Office say storm will ‘rapidly intensify’ over the next day

Tuesday 26 September 2023 15:34 , Athena Stavrou

As Storm Agnes makes it’s way across the Atlantic Ocean to Britain, the Met Office say it will ‘rapidly intensify’ in the next 18 hours.

The storm is currently around 300 miles north of the island of Terceira in the Azores region, and is rapidly moving towards the UK.

In a post on social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, the Met Office wrote: “Currently around 300 miles north of the island of Terceira, Azores, Storm Agnes will rapidly intensify during the next 18 hours as it moves towards the UK.

“Agnes will bring strong and disruptive winds to some areas on Wednesday afternoon and overnight into Thursday”

Storm Agnes is set to ‘rapidly intensify’ as it makes it’s way across the Atlantic Ocean towards the UK (PA)
Storm Agnes is set to ‘rapidly intensify’ as it makes it’s way across the Atlantic Ocean towards the UK (PA)

Weather likely to cause ‘dangerous conditions’ across UK & Ireland’s coasts - RNLI

Tuesday 26 September 2023 15:00 , Eleanor Noyce

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has warned the forecasted storm is likely to cause “dangerous conditions” on the coasts around the UK and Ireland.

RNLI water safety partner Sam Hughes said: “The RNLI advises staying a safe distance away from the water and cliff edges as the conditions could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea. It is not worth risking your life.

“If you see someone else in danger in the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. If you have something that floats that they can hold on to, throw it to them. Don’t go in the water yourself - you may end up in difficulty too.”

Storm Agnes could disrupt Irish Sea ferry network

Tuesday 26 September 2023 14:30 , Eleanor Noyce

Storm Agnes could cause power cuts, blow tiles from roofs and disrupt railways and roads, the Met Office has warned on its website.

Met Office spokesperson Oli Claydon also warned the storm could knock trees over and disrupt the Irish Sea ferry network.

“The storm centre itself remains over the Atlantic and will continue approaching and cross the UK through Wednesday afternoon and will move away Wednesday night into Thursday”, Mr Claydon said.

“In terms of most impacted areas, we’re looking at the Irish Sea coasts, so south-eastern parts of Northern Ireland, west and north-western coasts of Wales, and the north-western coast of England.”

Watch: Last week’s aftermath of Hurricane Nigel

Tuesday 26 September 2023 14:00 , Athena Stavrou

As Storm Agnes is set to hit the UK just a week after Britain was battered by Hurricane Nigel and Lee, watch the moment water poured from a tube station ceiling during last weeks extreme weather.

Water pours from tube station ceiling as London hit by flash flooding

New weather warnings for Storm Agnes as heavy rain and 80mph winds due

Tuesday 26 September 2023 13:46 , Eleanor Noyce

The Met Office has updated its guidance, issuing three yellow warnings for Wednesday, including two for rain and one for wind.

The warning for wind will cover almost the entirety of the UK, sweeping across Northern Ireland, up to northern Scotland and down to the southwest of England. Skipping London and the east of England, it will remain in place from 12.00 on Wednesday until 07.00 on Thursday.

Elsewhere, a separate warning for rain will be in place north of Glasgow from 15.00 tomorrow until 23.59, with the start and end time brought forward from previous predictions. Another warning, in place for the same period, is in place south of Edinburgh, spanning Wigtown and Dumfries.

Storm Agnes follows a week of heavy downpours in parts of the UK. Britain was hit by the remnants of two hurricanes, Lee and Nigel, dumping large amounts of rain that led to flooding in London and other parts of the country.

Met Office chief meteorologist Steve Ramsdale said: “While the precise track and depth of Storm Agnes is still being determined, there’s a high likelihood of wind gusts around 50 to 60mph for some inland areas. Exposed coastal areas could see gusts of 65-75mph with a small chance of a few places seeing around 80mph.”

He added that around 60mm of rain would be possible in a few areas of high ground in Scotland.

Strong winds and heavy rain are set to batter the UK as Storm Agnes sweeps across the country (PA/Jacob King) (PA Wire)
Strong winds and heavy rain are set to batter the UK as Storm Agnes sweeps across the country (PA/Jacob King) (PA Wire)

Hopes for warm October weather, says Met Office

Tuesday 26 September 2023 12:02 , Athena Stavrou

The Met Office has said that Britain could have a warm start to October next week, after Storm Agnes hits this week.

The forecasters said that temperatures could reach as high as 23C next Tuesday, 22C on the Wednesday, 19C on Thursday and 20C on Friday before hitting 21C at the weekend.

Its long-range forecast for October states: “Temperatures are expected to be close to or slightly above average through the period.

“Some more dry, settled periods, are likely until the middle of the month.”

It comes after several weeks of extreme weather seen in the UK with Hurricane Nigel, Lee and Storm Agnes all set to hit Britain within a two-week period.

Met Office warns commuters to bring umbrella this morning

Tuesday 26 September 2023 11:00 , Athena Stavrou

The Met Office has warned commuters to bring an umbrella and coat along with them this morning as Storm Agnes is due to batter the UK.

In a post on X, previously known as Twitter, the Met Office wrote: “Just stepping outside for the commute to work or school run? Here’s the forecast for the next few hours - you may want to grab your umbrella and coat!”

Flood alerts issued in England and Scotland

Tuesday 26 September 2023 10:08 , Athena Stavrou

The Met Office has issued flood alerts for areas across England and Scotland.

In England, three flood alerts have been issued for two areas in the Lake District and also for areas surrounding the River Thame in Oxfordshire.

In Scotland, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), have issued a flood alert for the Western Isles and warn residents to “remain vigilant”.

What the weather will be like near you during Storm Agnes

Tuesday 26 September 2023 09:03 , Athena Stavrou

With Storm Agnes set to hit the UK later this week, here is what the weather will look like near you from Wednesday to Friday, according to the Met Office.

London and the South East

Dry start Wednesday, before wet and windy weather sweeps quickly northeastwards overnight, risk of gales. Sunshine and scattered showers Thursday and Friday. Windy. Temperatures around average by day. Mild nights.

The south west

Heavy rain clearing to sunnier skies on Wednesday, though likely very windy. Less windy, with further rain or showers on Thursday and Friday. Temperatures closer to average.

The Midlands

After a fine start, turning wet and very windy on Wednesday. Less windy, with further rain or showers on Thursday and Friday. Temperatures closer to average.

The north east

Dry and bright start Wednesday, before wet and windy weather quickly sweeps northeastwards later, with gales likely, clearing overnight. Sunshine and showers following Thursday and Friday. Windy and staying mild.

The north west

Persistent heavy rain developing on Wednesday, with severe gales possible. Further rain or showers from the west on Thursday and Friday and remaining breezy. Temperatures closer to average.

Scotland

Windy conditions continuing later in the week. Dry and bright on Wednesday and Thursday but some heavy overnight rain likely. Sunny on Friday but a few blustery showers.

Wales

More persistent rain on Wednesday, and turning very windy with severe gales. Less windy, with further rain or showers on Thursday and Friday. Temperatures closer to average.

UK airports brace for weather disruption

Tuesday 26 September 2023 08:07 , Athena Stavrou

Birmingham Airport has issued advice to travellers ahead of today’s storm.

A spokesperson for the airport told BirminghamLive: “We are prepared for these weather conditions and will be operating in line with our usual extreme weather procedures.”

Birmingham Airport will be oprerating in line with “extreme weather procedures” (PA Archive)
Birmingham Airport will be oprerating in line with “extreme weather procedures” (PA Archive)

What is Storm Agnes?

Tuesday 26 September 2023 07:30 , Martha Mchardy

Storm Agnes is a deep area of low pressure developing in the Atlantic.

According to forecasters, it is likely to move in from the southwest on Wednesday and move up through the Irish Sea to northern areas of the UK throughout the day.

Full list of Met Office’s storm names for 2023/2024

Tuesday 26 September 2023 07:00 , Martha Mchardy

The Met Office has released 21 storm names for the upcoming autumn and winter period.

  • Agnes

  • Babet

  • Ciaran

  • Debi

  • Elin

  • Fergus

  • Gerrit

  • Henk

  • Isha

  • Jocelyn

  • Kathleen

  • Lilian

  • Minnie

  • Nicholas

  • Olga

  • Piet

  • Regina

  • Stuart

  • Tamiko

  • Vincent

  • Walid

Dry weather forecast after Storm Agnes

Tuesday 26 September 2023 06:30 , Stuti Mishra

After Storm Agnes brings two days of heavy rain showers and strong winds beginning tomorrow, the Met Office forecasts the weather will turn mostly dry on Friday and remain so on Saturday.

While there are no signs that a hot spell is on the cards, the forecaster says showers will begin to ease from Thursday afternoon giving way to pleasant conditions.

Afterwards, a changeable pattern is expected through this period, with "a fairly settled start [to October] across most parts of the UK, excluding northern areas, where showers are likely to continue, especially in the northwest."

23C temperature recorded on Monday

Tuesday 26 September 2023 06:00 , Stuti Mishra

The Met Office says Monday remained a warm day for most in the UK with temperatures around 3-5°C above the late-September average.

While the north saw temperatures in the teens, the south basked in sunshine for most parts with temperatures ranging from 20-23C.

From Tuesday onwards, as wind and rain arrives with Storm Agnes, the temperatures are set to plummet but may stay close to the average for most parts.

UK weather forecast for today

Tuesday 26 September 2023 05:30 , Stuti Mishra

The Met Office is predicting showers and longer spells of rain today ahead of Storm Agnes' arrival.

While the worst weather is expected to begin from Wednesday when there is a yellow warning in place, today can be wet and windy for many, especially in the north.

However, the south could see skies clearing for a mostly dry day during the afternoon with light winds.

Storm Agnes expected to diminish on Thursday, says Met office

Tuesday 26 September 2023 05:00 , Martha Mchardy

Storm Agnes’s influence on UK weather is expected to diminish later on Thursday as it weakens and moves further north, the Met Office said.

Rain will then move into southern areas late on Thursday and into Friday, with some heavy bursts possible for some areas of England and Wales.

But as we head into the weekend, a ridge of high pressure from the south is expected to bring a period of more settled weather, though some showers could continue in northern and western areas for a time.

Which regions will Storm Agnes affect?

Tuesday 26 September 2023 04:30 , Stuti Mishra

The storm will affect western regions of the UK and Ireland on Wednesday, with the most powerful winds expected on the Irish Sea coasts.Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and northern England will also see heavy rainfall, with the possibility of up to 60mm in high-altitude areas of Scotland.

“As well as some very strong winds for many, Storm Agnes will also bring some heavy rain, with the highest totals more likely in Scotland, northern England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Around 60mm of rain is possible in a few places over high ground in Scotland.”

A yellow warning for wind has been issued for a large area of the UK, with a rain warning also issued for parts of Scotland.

Met Office yellow weather warnings map

Tuesday 26 September 2023 04:00 , Martha Mchardy

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for most of the UK ahead of storm Agnes (Met Office)
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for most of the UK ahead of storm Agnes (Met Office)

Highs of 24C forecast after Storm Agnes

Tuesday 26 September 2023 03:00 , Martha Mchardy

An Indian Summer with highs of 24C is set to hit the UK after Storm Agnes.

Warm temperatures are set to hit parts of the UK on Saturday until the following Tuesday, according to experts.

British Weather Services’ senior meteorological consultant Jim Dale told the Mirror: “A taste of an Indian summer is currently on the cards in the aftermath of the ‘offspring’ of the ex-hurricane Nigel [Storm Agnes], and will last from Saturday to the following Tuesday. It’ll mainly cover South-East England, with 23 or 24C possible at the upper limits.

“Prior to that warmth, the Atlantic storm is forming and will move in from the Southwest, crossing northern parts of the UK on Wednesday. I first saw this potential development last week, and warned it may turn into a potent force.

“Expect 60 to 70mph gusts in the North-West, and 40 to 50mph gusts elsewhere. There will be sizeable rain too, mainly in the same areas as the highest winds, with more than 25mm expected in places. As ever we watch and wait!”

The 13 UK regions expected to be hit by Storm Agnes

Tuesday 26 September 2023 02:00 , Martha Mchardy

The Met Office has given 13 UK regions an official weather warning as Storm Anges approaches on Wednesday.

The 13 regions are listed below:

Central, Tayside & Fife

East Midlands

Grampian

Highlands & Eilean Siar

North East England

North West England

Northern Ireland

SW Scotland, Lothian Borders

South West England

Strathclyde

Wales

West Midlands

Yorkshire & Humber

ICYMI: Lightning struck 9,000 times during ‘insane’ thunderstorm

Tuesday 26 September 2023 01:00 , Martha Mchardy

Torrential downpours during an ‘insane’ thunderstorm led to flash flooding as roads in parts of the UK turned into rivers.

Dramatic footage taken in Kenton, Devon, showed rainwater streaming down roads and into a village square as residents waded through in boots.

And in Dawlish, Devon, a bridge crossing over a river was totally submerged after the huge downpour struck the southwest of England on Sunday.

Alexander Butler reports:

Lightning strikes 9,000 times during ‘insane’ thunderstorm as UK hit by flash floods

ICYMI: London roads turn into rivers after ‘monsoon’ rain with more coming from Hurricane Nigel

Tuesday 26 September 2023 00:00 , Martha Mchardy

Torrential rain across London left streets flooded with firefighters working tirelessly throughout Wednesday evening to respond to calls.

With heavy rain only set to get worse ahead of Hurricane Nigel, the Met Office has warned of potential flooding and the possibility of interruption to power supplies.

The London Fire Brigade received “numerous calls” over flooding as dramatic footage showed roads turning into rivers, with crews “working as quickly and as safely as they can” to provide assistance.

Holly Evans reports:

London roads turn into rivers after ‘monsoon’ rain ahead of Hurricane Nigel

Met Office 4 day weather forecast

Monday 25 September 2023 23:00 , Martha Mchardy

Monday:

Early cloud soon clearing from southeast England, then mostly dry with sunny spells and lighter winds across southern and central areas. However, windy with scattered showers further north, some heavy.

Tuesday-Thursday:

Sunshine and showers on Tuesday, the showers heavy and blustery in places. Wednesday could see some disruption due to heavy rain and very strong winds. Gradually improving on Thursday.

Danger to life warnings issued by Met Office as 80mph winds set to batter Britons

Monday 25 September 2023 22:00 , Martha Mchardy

The Met Office has issued danger-to-life weather warnings as 80mph winds are set to batter the UK.

A yellow warning has been put in place across the majority of the UK from 10am on Wednesday until 7am on Thursday, spanning from the southwest of England, across to Northern Ireland and up to Inverness.

Gale force winds across swathes of the country could result in travel disruption, damage to buildings and even power cuts.

Eleanor Noyce reports:

Danger to life warnings issued by Met Office as 80mph winds set to batter Britons

Latest pictures as Storm Agnes set to hit UK

Monday 25 September 2023 21:00 , Martha Mchardy

Waves crash against the sea wall in Tramore, County Waterford, as Storm Betty brought strong winds and rain to Ireland (PA Wire)
Waves crash against the sea wall in Tramore, County Waterford, as Storm Betty brought strong winds and rain to Ireland (PA Wire)