STORM ISHA: WEATHER WARNING UPGRADED TO AMBER WITH 80MPH WINDS EXPECTED

A yellow weather warning for strong winds has been upgraded to amber by the IW Met Service, with forecasters warning of winds of up to 80mph hitting parts of the Isle of Wight from later on today (Sunday). A spell of very strong winds will develop during this evening and into the early hours of Monday morning, accompanied by some continuous and sometimes heavy rain. Southwesterly wind gusts of 50-60mph are expected widely with localised gusts of 70mph over hills and around exposed coastal areas. There is a small window where a few western and southern parts of the Island, along with more elevated locations, could briefly see wind speeds reaching 75-80mph – this is possible between 01:00-03:00 tomorrow morning. The upgraded warning is now in force from 19:00 this evening until 06:00 tomorrow morning (22nd January). Islanders are warned of dangerous driving conditions for high-sided vehicles, with a moderate risk of falling tree debris. Wind-blown rain and spray is likely over download and along exposed coastal areas. Very large waves are expected around Western and Southern coasts, along with ‘sneaker waves’. Cross-Solent travel is likely to be disrupted by the high winds.