Strong winds set to hit north Wales over Easter weekend

Parts of north Wales are set to be battered by strong winds over the Easter weekend, with forecasters warning of travel disruption, power cuts and potential damage to buildings.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning covering north Wales, along with Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England.

The warning comes into force at 6pm on Saturday and remains in place until midday on Easter Sunday.

Forecasters say gusts of 50 to 60mph are expected across affected areas, with speeds potentially reaching 60 to 70mph in more exposed locations, including coastal and upland parts of north Wales.

The conditions could lead to delays across road, rail, air and ferry services, with some cancellations possible.

Motorists have been warned to take extra care, particularly drivers of high-sided vehicles using exposed routes and bridges, where conditions could become hazardous. There is also a possibility that some routes may be temporarily closed if winds intensify.

There is a risk of power cuts and disruption to services such as mobile phone coverage, alongside the potential for damage to buildings, including tiles being blown from roofs.

Coastal areas could also be affected, with forecasters warning of a “small chance” of injuries caused by large waves and debris being thrown onto seafronts and coastal roads.

Deputy chief meteorologist Dan Holley said the change in weather is being driven by a cold air mass moving across the Atlantic.

‘Cold plunge’

“A significant cold plunge from Canada into the North Atlantic will impact our weekend weather, strengthening the jet stream and bringing a deep area of low pressure towards the north-west of the UK on Saturday night,” he said.

“This will lead to a spell of very strong winds later on Saturday and overnight into the morning of Easter Sunday.

“We have issued yellow warnings for wind for northern parts of Wales and other areas, where strong winds could cause disruption.”

Conditions are expected to ease gradually through Sunday as the low pressure system moves away into the North Sea.

People planning travel or outdoor activities over the Easter weekend are being advised to check the latest forecasts and take care, particularly in exposed and coastal areas.