Weather warning issued as Storm Ellen set to batter Lancashire with 60mph winds
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The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning as Storm Ellen is set to move in from the Atlantic, bringing strong winds with it.
Storm Ellen contains the remnants of Tropical Storm Kyle and is set to bring severe gales as it hits the west coast of Ireland later today, and then sweeps across to the UK.
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Hide AdCovering most of the county, the yellow weather warning has been issued from 4am until 6pm on Friday (August 21).
The weather experts say delays to transport services are likely as the strong southwesterly winds develop, as well as the possibility of power cuts.
A spokesman for the Met Office said: Strong southwesterly winds are expected to develop across much of England, Wales and southern Scotland during Friday.
"Wind gusts of 45-50 mph are expected fairly widely inland with gusts of 55-60 mph possible around coasts and over hills.
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Hide Ad"Winds are then expected to gradually ease during late afternoon and evening."
With many opting to holiday at home due to coronavirus, rescue organisations are urging those planning trips to the coast or mountains to pay heed to weather forecasts.
Kevin Rahill of the RNLI advised that although stormy conditions may be tempting to watch "the sea is very dangerous and unpredictable and big waves can easily knock you off your feet".
"The sea is far more powerful than you think and your chances of survival are slim if you are dragged into the swell," said Mr Rahill.
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Hide Ad"We understand why people want to experience extreme weather, but we strongly urge people to respect the water and watch from a safe distance.
"Around 150 people accidentally lose their lives around UK and Irish waters each year and over half of these people didn't plan on ever entering the water."
Here's what the Met Office says to expect:
- Some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport are likely
- Probably some bus and train services affected, with some journeys taking longer
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Hide Ad- Delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges likely
- Some short term loss of power and other services is possible
- It’s likely that some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities are affected by spray and/or large waves
- Some damage to trees with debris on roads are possible given the time of year
To find out more about the weather warning, click HERE.