UK weather: Brits hit by 70mph gales with major bridge forced to close after Met Office issues yellow warning for wind

GALES of up to 70mph have torn through Britain overnight, bringing travel disruptions following the closure of a key bridge.

The Met Office has warned that the weather will pummel Brits across much of England and Wales until this evening.

AlamyAutumn is well and truly underway as wet and windy weather strikes the UK[/caption]

Bav MediaStormy weather and big waves at Brighton in Sussex, as people along the coast are warned to be wary of large waves that could sweep them out to sea[/caption]

A yellow warning is in place across most of England and Wales until tomorrow evening

The gales have forced the M48 Severn Bridge in South Gloucestershire to close in both directions between its first and second junctions.

“Strong west or southwesterly winds will arrive across coastal areas of southwest England and Wales during Sunday evening, then develop more widely inland during Monday morning,” the forecaster said.

“Gusts of 45-55 mph are expected widely inland, with gusts of 60-70 mph possible at times along exposed coasts and hills.

“Winds will only slowly ease from the west later in the afternoon and into Monday evening.”

The Met Office also warned those affected to plan their routes in advance and frequently check for delays and road closures.

The stormy conditions could cause delays for people travelling by train, plane, boat and car.

Many journeys will likely take longer than usual, especially if commuters hop on the bus or train.

The Met Office also warned lorries and other high-sides vehicles to be careful on exposed routes and bridges.

In some places, the wind could even knock out the power.

The warning was put in place from 8pm yesterday evening and will last until 6pm today,

It stretches from the entire south and midlands, all the way up to just below Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

The weather for the rest of the week is also set to inconvenience Brits.

On Tuesday, a ridge of high pressure will bring a short-lived spell of more settled conditions before another low pressure system is likely to affect the UK on Wednesday.

The weather warning added: “Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea.

“Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

It comes after thunderstorms and heavy rain lashed parts of England and Wales after the Met Office issued a 15-hour yellow weather warning last week.

AlamyIt comes after Storm Amy sweeped the UK[/caption]

Eamonn & James ClarkeWorkers sprint to get out of the rain in Manchester City Centre[/caption]

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