UPDATED: An amber severe weather warning for strong winds has been issued by the Met Office for tomorrow (Monday) as Storm Imogen is set to strike.
Gusts of up to 80mph are expected to sweep along the South from the West Country throughout Monday morning bringing possible disruption to cross-Solent services and the Island’s road network. Some very large waves are likely to affect many coasts – including here on the Island – however winds should gradually ease through the afternoon and evening.
‘Be Prepared’ is the message from the Met Office as they warn of possible damage to trees and structures, as well as interruption of power supplies. Risk to personal safety from flying debris is included within an amber warning.
The warning, which is in place from 03:00 until 18:00, supersedes a previously issued yellow weather warning for wind. It is thought to be the first time in 18 months that the Isle of Wight has come under an amber warning.
The Met Office say there remains some uncertainty in northward and eastward extent of the damaging winds as well as the peak strengths and as such the warning will be kept under review.
UPDATE @ 11:00: The warning area has been expanded to include more of the Isle of Wight and the South East coast of the UK.
Last night (Saturday) the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service were called to loose roof tiles in West Street, Ryde.
During adverse weather HM Coastguard’s advice is simple: don’t take risks by straying too close to cliff edges or breaking waves, and stay out of flood water. If you do get into difficulty, or spot someone who might be in trouble, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
UPDATE MONDAY @ 17:40 – The Met Office weather warning is due to expire at 18:00.
Our live coverage of Storm Imogen, which has now concluded, can be reviewed at https://www.islandecho.co.uk/news/live-updates-storm-imogen.
