The Met Office has issued amber and yellow weather warnings across swathes of the UK as Storm Benjamin brings winds of up to 70mph and heavy rainfall that threatens flooding and widespread disruption over the next 48 hours.
Western coastal areas of England, Wales, and parts of Northern Ireland face the most severe amber wind warnings, with gusts reaching 60-70mph. Inland regions across England, Scotland, and Wales are under yellow warnings for winds of 50-60mph. The powerful gusts risk damaging buildings, felling trees, and causing power cuts.
Storm Benjamin is also delivering substantial rainfall, with yellow rain warnings active across Scotland, parts of northern England, and Wales. Some areas could see 30-50mm of rain, with isolated spots experiencing higher totals. On already saturated ground, this raises serious flooding concerns for low-lying areas and riverside communities.
South-west and north-west England will bear the brunt of the winds, whilst the North East and Midlands face significant rainfall. Scotland confronts widespread wind warnings and considerable rain, particularly in the west. Wales is under both amber and yellow wind warnings alongside heavy rain alerts, especially for coastal and mountainous areas. Northern Ireland's western seaboard is bracing for strong winds and rain.
The Met Office urges residents to secure loose garden items, check on vulnerable neighbours, and prepare for travel delays on roads, railways, and ferries. Drivers face particular risks on exposed routes and bridges from crosswinds and standing water, whilst pedestrians should watch for falling debris.
Despite relatively mild temperatures of 7°C to 11°C, wind chill will make conditions feel considerably colder. The storm will track eastwards through Wednesday night into Thursday, with conditions gradually easing by Friday morning as Benjamin moves into the North Sea.
Source: Met Office