Weather: Storm Ashley to batter UK with 80mph winds as six flood alerts issued for London

Weather: Storm Ashley to batter UK with 80mph winds as six flood alerts issued for London

A storm is set to sweep across the UK triggering weather alerts including six flood warnings in London.

Storm Ashley is expected to bring 80 mph winds and torrential rain, prompting an amber weather warning for parts of the UK from 9am on Saturday until midnight.

The amber alert signifies a potential threat to life, power cuts and significant disruption to roads and other forms of transport.

Meanwhile, there is a flood warning at London Bridge with potential problems at Custom House and Bankside by Tate. Other flood warnings have been issued for parts of west London.

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Tony Wisson said: “Storm Ashley will bring strong winds for most of the UK on Sunday before it clears on Monday, with a chance of some disruption across parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, Northwest England and West Wales.

“A period of especially strong winds are expected on Sunday afternoon and evening in western Scotland, where gusts could potentially reach 70-80mph in exposed areas and an Amber warning for winds has been issued here.

“More generally 50-60 mph are possible in some inland areas in other parts of the warning area, especially Northern Ireland and western Scotland, and perhaps up to 60-70 mph along exposed coasts and hills. These strong winds in conjunction with high spring tides, may cause some disruption. It is important that people stay up to date with the latest forecast and our warnings.”

Transport Scotland has warned of likely disruptions to public transport, including the country’s ferry network.

A statement said: “A windy period is expected across the whole of the UK on Sunday and into Monday, but across parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, north-west England and north-west Wales there is an increased chance of some disruption.

“These strong winds in conjunction with high spring tides may cause some disruption.”

Families travelling during the October school holidays have been advised to check for cancellations.