Storm Ciaran: Forecast of 85mph winds sees several UK airports halt operations

Met Office weather warnings for wind and rain are in place for the majority of southern England on Wednesday, extending from Cornwall all the way along the south coast and round to Norfolk and East Anglia, as well as much of south and mid Wales.

There are also yellow warnings for raining covering the whole of Northern Ireland on Wednesday, as well as parts of south west, central and eastern Scotland.

On Thursday, amber warnings for wind are in place for south west England, west Wales and the south coast of England, with the Met Office warning of up to 85mph winds which could "disrupt travel, utilities, and cause some structural damage". There are also yellow warnings for rain in place across parts of north east England, north Wales and Anglesey, and the Belfast and Newry areas of Northern Ireland.

Brace for rain and high winds

Gatwick Express confirmed on Monday that speed restrictions would be in place across its network during the forecasted impact of Storm Ciaran, which will “cause delay and lead to changes to the train service”. 

It added: “Given the high winds that are forecast and the risk of fallen trees and debris being blown on to the tracks, some routes may have to close on Thursday so you should consider changing your travel plans or working from home on Thursday if you can.” 

Met Office chief meteorologist Dan Suri said: “Ahead of Storm Ciaran, a squally cold front will move eastwards across southern and southeast England bringing bursts of heavy rain and coastal gusts of 60-70mph, mainly from Dorset eastwards. 

“Storm Ciaran is expected to bring very strong along southern coastal areas of England in particular where gusts of 70 to 80mph are possible, gusts perhaps exceeding 85 mph in the most exposed locations.”

Suri added: “Much of southern England and southern Wales, as well as parts of north Wales, northeast England, south-east Scotland and perhaps the east of Northern Ireland look to see the wettest conditions between Wednesday evening and Friday morning.”