On January 21, Storm Isha's harsh winds hit the United Kingdom, prompting a nationwide yellow warning, according to The New York Times.
By standards, the Met Office first recorded gusts of 90mph in Snowdonia and 99mph in Northumberland. The storm hit Scotland intensely, resulting in a life-threatening “red weather warning” being issued across the country.
While it appears to be moving away from the UK, the Met Office expects the remaining effects of the storm to subside by January 24.
To prevent air casualties amid the strong winds of Storm Isha, all airlines have imposed air traffic control restrictions, resulting in a large number of flight cancellations, diversions and delays. Road closures and train suspensions were also reported in England and Ireland.
Storm Isha may not end until Wednesday
According to Sky News, up to 8,000 power outages were reported in England, while in Ireland, more than 45,000 homes and businesses were without power. All repair activities have been postponed until Tuesday evening.
According to the Met Office's latest update, the storm is now moving steadily away from the UK. But as a precaution against a windy day, a yellow warning has been put in place until midday.
The Met Office also informed citizens that strong winds are expected until the morning of Wednesday, January 24, increasing the possibility of disruption to travel and facilities, according to the Manchester Evening News.
Flood warnings have been issued across the UK following Storm Isha
Along with flight cancellations, road closures and power outages, Storm Isha also brought heavy rain to some areas of England and Scotland. The Met Office has issued 50 flood warnings in Scotland and 28 warnings in England.
UK meteorologists also warned citizens to expect potential damage to buildings, flying debris, falling trees and high waves. Here is the statement from Tom Morgan, a meteorologist at the Met Office:
“There is a potential for life-threatening and damaging winds that could lead to power outages in some places, and some large waves around coastal areas may bring some debris onto roads and trees may fall.”
Morgan also stated that “it is very unusual for the entire country to be under a blanket wind warning.”
Storm Isha was triggered by cold air coming from the Atlantic Ocean. Citizens – especially those with travel plans – are advised to keep the weather forecast updated for 5 days before going ahead with any plan. It remains to be seen whether the storm will lead to the temporary suspension of schools and offices.
