60mph winds forecast as Storm Francis approaches, warns Met Office

A FRESH weather warning for high winds from Storm Francis has been issued for the New Forest and Christchurch after the area was hit by powerful gusts and high tides at the weekend.

A wide area of England and Wales has been included in the Met Office yellow alert – the lowest level – for tomorrow (Tuesday) and Wednesday, with speeds of up to 60mph in exposed coasts.

Residents were warned of some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport being likely, with coastal areas affected by spray and large waves. Some short-term loss of power and other services is possible, it added.

As reported in the A&T, the Environment Agency also issued flood alerts for last Friday at Christchurch Harbour, the lower Avon and Stour, the Calshot and Lepe area, and Beaulieu estuary, with Force 7-8 wings predicted.

The Met Office forecast on Sunday: “A spell of strong winds is likely to develop across the south-west of England and Wales on Tuesday morning, before spreading east across other parts of England and Wales overnight, clearing into the North Sea on Wednesday.

“Gusts of wind are likely to exceed 50mph for quite a few places, with exposed coasts and hills seeing gusts in excess of 60mph.

“Whilst not exceptional, winds this strong are unusual for August and they will be accompanied by some heavy rain in places, with possible transport disruption and impacts on outdoor activities.”