The national weather service, Met Office, has issued fresh weather alerts as Storm Benjamin is poised to unleash 75mph gusts across Britain.
The warnings, designated as yellow, encompass large parts of southern England, the east Midlands, Wales, and Yorkshire, in effect until 9pm tomorrow. The anticipated wet and blustery conditions may lead to disruptions in travel, flooding, power outages, and structural damage.
Forecasters predict up to two inches of rainfall within a 21-hour timeframe starting tonight as Storm Benjamin makes its presence felt. Monitoring a deep low-pressure system traversing the Atlantic, experts anticipate severe weather upon its arrival in northern Europe.
This marks the second storm in recent weeks following the havoc caused by Storm Amy. Additionally, a wind warning is in place for tomorrow from 9am to 11.59pm, covering the eastern regions of England up to Scarborough, with potential gusts reaching 75mph.
The Met Office has announced wind speeds of up to 55mph, possibly 65mph near coastal areas. South West England and parts of Wales, including Somerset, Devon, Cornwall, Swansea, and Pembrokeshire, are under another yellow wind alert for Thursday.
Meteorologist Aidan McGivern from the Met Office forecasts a sudden shift in weather following a brief period of calm. He warns of strong winds sweeping through southern and eastern coasts, with gusts of up to 60mph or higher in exposed locations.
Thursday is expected to witness heavy downpours and gales nationwide, posing risks of structural damage and flooding, as highlighted by senior meteorologist Jim Dale from British Weather Services. Dale advises residents in central and eastern England to remain indoors as gusts could reach 70mph.
The Met Office has also cautioned about strong winds and rain advancing northwards from Wednesday evening onwards, with multiple weather alerts for rain and wind expected in the ensuing 24 hours.
Deputy Chief Meteorologist Dan Harris stated that low pressure moving across southern UK on Thursday will bring heavy rain and strong winds. The rain is projected to sweep northeast from the southwest on Wednesday evening, potentially leading to challenging driving conditions and localized flooding, while coastal areas in the south may experience intensified winds.