Amber warning (be prepared) of wind

Valid from Wednesday 12 February 10.00am to Wednesday 12 February 11.50pm

A vigorous area of low pressure is expected to move northeastwards across northern parts of the UK later on Wednesday, clearing eastwards early on Thursday. This is likely to be accompanied by a swathe of southwesterly gales across many areas which may be severe in places. Winds will veer more westerly later on Wednesday.

A first peak in the winds is likely over southwest England around the middle of Wednesday but with the main swathe of even stronger and potentially damaging winds crossing parts of Wales then northern England later in the day.

The public should be prepared for the risk of disruption to transport and possibly also power supplies. In addition, large waves are likely to affect some coasts.

This warning should be viewed in the broader context of the Yellow wind warning reproduced below.

Yellow warning (be aware) of wind

Valid from Wednesday 12 February 10.00am to Thursday 13 February 3.00am

A vigorous area of low pressure is expected to move northeastwards across the UK later on Wednesday, clearing eastwards early on Thursday. This is likely to be accompanied by a swathe of gales across many parts of England and Wales which may be severe in places.

A first peak in the winds is likely over southwest England around the middle of Wednesday but with the main swathe of even stronger and potentially damaging winds crossing parts of Wales then northern England later in the day (see Amber warning).

The public should be prepared for the the risk of disruption to transport and possibly also power supplies.  In addition, large waves are likely to affect some coasts.