A ‘major incident’ has been declared as the UK is due to be battered by winds of up to 110mph.
Storm Ciaran is expected to hit Southampton at 6pm this evening (Wednesday, November 1), before barrelling across Britain.
It was reported that Southampton’s Itchen Bridge will be closed from 7pm on Wednesday evening because of the storm.
The major incident was declared in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, amid concerns the strong winds and downpours could pose a ‘risk to life’.
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Multiple forecasts have suggested that winds could rise above 90mph in several areas and that Storm Ciaran will see high winds, high rainfall, and intense flooding.
In advance of the storm, Condor Ferries has reportedly cancelled all freight and passenger routes between the Channel Islands and the UK while DFDS has also cancelled services between Newhaven and Dieppe in France.
Storm Ciaran has also been declared a major incident in Hampshire over fears of a potential “risk to life” because of incoming weather system.
A spokesperson for Shirley Infant School told the BBC: “In anticipation of the severe weather expected as a result of Storm Ciarán, we are advising schools in the city to close in order to ensure the safety of staff, pupils and parents. However, some schools may decide to remain open.”
Speaking about Storm Ciaran on Wednesday afternoon the Deputy Chief Meteorologist for the Met Office Brent Walker said: “Wind and rain warnings associated with Storm Ciarán are in force from tonight through until Friday, with further updates possible.
“These include Amber warnings for wind for parts of southwest England on Thursday morning and the far south and southeast of England Thursday daytime and early evening.
“Very strong winds are expected along southern coastal areas of England in particular, where gusts of 70 to 80mph are possible, perhaps exceeding 85 mph in a few exposed locations.
“Further inland, gusts could reach up to 50 or 60mph. As well as strong winds, there will be heavy rain across many parts of the UK.”
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Mr Walker added: “Much of southern and western England, Wales, northeast England and eastern Scotland look to see the wettest conditions between Wednesday evening and Friday morning.
“20-30 mm of rain is likely to fall quite widely, with 40-60 mm possible over higher ground. Some parts of Wales and southwest England may see 80 mm of rain. This rain will fall on already saturated ground, bringing the risk of flooding.”
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