The first storm of the season is set to hit parts of England and Scotland today bringing high winds and rain. Named by the Danish Meteorological Institute (DMI), Storm Otto has been moving east across the far north of the UK since the early hours.
The storm is predicted to bring in gusts in excess of 75mph to some northern areas. A yellow weather warning has been issued from 3am to 3pm today (February 17) for almost all Scotland and another from 5am to 2pm for the borders and north east England, as far down as South Yorkshire.
The Met Office has warned that there may be injuries or even danger to life from flying debris and damage is expected to buildings and roofs. Commuters should expect disruption to road, rail, air and ferry services longer journey times, road closures and cancellations may be possible.
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Large waves and beach material could be thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties and power cuts may occur, which could affect other services such as mobile phone coverage.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Andy Page said: "Storm Otto will bring high winds and rain to the UK, with some northern parts of Scotland and the northeast of England likely to get the strongest gusts of wind, possibly in excess of 75mph. Warnings have been issued and could be updated as Storm Otto develops.
"There’s a chance of travel disruption and high-sided vehicles could be particularly prone to disrupted plans in this set-up. There’s associated rain with Storm Otto, with 40-50 mm of rain likely to fall over parts of western Scotland."
Although Storm Otto is expected to bring severe weather conditions today, it is set to be a short experience. The Met Office predicts the rest of the weather for the weekend to remain "largely unsettled, with a mix of cloud and rain likely on Saturday".
To find out more about Storm Otto, please visit the Met Office website.
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