Devon, Somerset Yellow Wind Alert Sunday

𝕻𝖆𝖘𝖘𝖎𝖔𝖓 𝕮𝖎𝖙𝖞 𝕮𝖍𝖚𝖗𝖈𝖍 𝕯𝖎𝖌𝖎𝖙𝖆𝖑 𝕸𝖊𝖉𝖎𝖆

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Post on Dec 20, 2024

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Devon & Somerset Yellow Wind Alert: Sunday's Storm Prep Guide

Sunday's forecast for Devon and Somerset brings a yellow wind warning, prompting necessary preparations to ensure safety and minimize disruption. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the impending weather, safety precautions, and helpful tips to weather the storm.

Understanding the Yellow Wind Warning

The Met Office's yellow warning signifies potential disruption from strong winds. While not as severe as amber or red warnings, a yellow warning still necessitates caution and preparedness. For Devon and Somerset, known for their exposed coastal areas and hilly terrain, even moderate winds can cause significant impacts. Expect gusts reaching potentially damaging speeds throughout the day, particularly in exposed locations. This isn't just about a bit of wind; we're talking about potential power outages, travel delays, and the risk of flying debris.

Preparing Your Home for High Winds

Preparing your home is crucial to mitigating the potential damage from strong winds. Here's a checklist of essential steps:

Secure Loose Items:

• Outdoor Furniture: Bring all garden furniture, such as chairs, tables, and umbrellas, indoors or securely tie them down. Lightweight items can easily become airborne projectiles in high winds, causing damage to property or injury.
• Potted Plants: Larger potted plants should be moved to a sheltered location or secured to prevent them from being blown over. Smaller plants can be brought indoors.
• Debris: Clear your garden and surrounding areas of any loose debris, such as branches, leaves, and toys, that could be picked up by the wind.
• Garage Doors: Ensure your garage door is securely closed and locked. Strong winds can easily force open poorly secured garage doors.
• Window Coverings: Check that all window coverings are secure. Consider closing and locking windows, particularly those facing the prevailing wind direction.

Protect Your Property:

• Gutters & Downpipes: Inspect your gutters and downpipes for blockages and ensure they are secure. Overfilled gutters can overflow and cause damage during heavy rain often associated with strong winds.
• Roof Tiles: If you have any concerns about loose or damaged roof tiles, contact a roofing professional before the storm hits.
• Trees: Trim any overhanging branches that could pose a risk of falling onto your property.

Travel Safety During High Winds

Strong winds significantly impact road and air travel. Planning your journey carefully is vital.

Driving Safety:

• Check the Forecast: Before setting off, carefully check the latest weather forecast and be aware of any travel warnings or restrictions.
• Drive Slowly: Reduce your speed and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. High winds can make driving conditions challenging and unpredictable.
• Be Aware of High-Sided Vehicles: Be extra cautious when passing high-sided vehicles, as they are particularly vulnerable to strong winds.
• Secure Loose Items: Secure any loose items in your vehicle, as they could easily become dislodged and cause a hazard.
• Avoid Bridges & Exposed Areas: If possible, avoid driving across bridges and on exposed stretches of road where the wind will have the most impact.

Public Transport:

• Check for Delays: Check with your public transport provider before setting off, as delays or cancellations are likely.
• Allow Extra Time: Even if there are no delays, allow extra time for your journey, as strong winds can make travel times longer.

Power Outages & Emergency Preparedness

Power outages are a common occurrence during strong winds. Being prepared is crucial.

• Charge Devices: Charge all your electronic devices before the storm hits.
• Have a Plan: Make a plan for what you will do if the power goes out, including where you will go if your home is unsafe.
• Assemble an Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit containing essential items, such as a torch, first-aid kit, bottled water, and non-perishable food.
• Know Your Emergency Contacts: Ensure everyone in your household knows who to contact in case of an emergency.
• Check on Vulnerable Neighbors: Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors to ensure they are safe and prepared.

Coastal Safety

Devon and Somerset boast stunning coastlines, but strong winds present significant coastal hazards.

• Avoid Coastal Walks: Avoid coastal walks and clifftop paths during high winds. Strong gusts can easily knock you off balance, and waves can be unpredictable.
• Stay Away from the Water: Stay away from the water's edge, as large waves and debris can be extremely dangerous.
• Heed Warning Signs: Pay close attention to any warning signs or advice issued by coastal authorities.

Staying Informed

Staying informed about the evolving weather situation is crucial.

• Monitor the Met Office: Regularly check the Met Office website and app for the latest forecasts and warnings.
• Local News: Keep an eye on local news channels and websites for updates on the storm's impact on your area.
• Social Media: Follow relevant local authority and emergency service accounts on social media for important updates and safety advice.

Remember: This yellow wind warning is a call to action. Taking proactive steps to prepare your home and plan your journey will significantly reduce the potential for disruption and danger. Staying informed and following safety advice will help you weather the storm safely and securely. Stay vigilant, stay safe, and stay informed.