Storm Freya is set to bring strong winds to Shropshire and much of the UK on Sunday and Monday.
South-westerly winds will strengthen through Sunday afternoon, with gusts of 55-65 mph expected.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Jason Kelly, said: “Storm Freya undergoes rapid cyclogenesis late Saturday and early Sunday as it moves across the eastern Atlantic Ocean towards the British Isles, this means the area of low pressure will deepen quickly as it moves towards us.
Describing the potential impacts of Storm Freya, Jason said: “Where winds are strongest we can expect significant disruption to travel, with damage to buildings and trees likely. It’ll be especially dangerous near coastal areas due to the wind whipping up large waves.”
Highways England’s Head of Road Safety, Richard Leonard, said: “We’re encouraging drivers to check the latest weather and travel conditions before setting off on journeys and consider if their journey is necessary and can be delayed until conditions improve. If you do intend to travel, then plan your journey and take extra care, allowing more time for your journey.
“In high winds, there’s a particular risk to lorries, caravans and motorbikes so we’d advise drivers of these vehicles to slow down.
“Drivers of other vehicles should be aware of sudden gusts of wind which can affect handling and braking, and give high-sided vehicles, caravans, and motorbikes plenty of space. In the event of persistent high winds we may need to close bridges to traffic for a period, so please be alert for warnings of closures and follow signed diversion routes.”
Looking ahead to next week, Deputy Chief Meteorologist Jason Kelly, said: “As Storm Freya moves into the North Sea on Monday so too will the strongest winds. The rest of the week will be largely unsettled with further spells of wet and windy weather, but some fair weather and sunshine in places too.”
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