Storm Amy is expected to develop rapidly as it approaches the UK on Friday 3 October, bringing very strong winds and heavy rain to many northern and western areas. A number of weather warnings have been issued.

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Tom Crabtree, said; “Although there is still some uncertainty about the exact track Storm Amy will take, the system will bring gale force winds across northern and western regions, with gusts widely reaching 50 to 60 miles per hour inland in northern Britain, and potentially reaching 70 to 80 miles per hour in places. With even stronger gusts on exposed coasts and hills, mainly in the northwest.

“Heavy rainfall is also expected, in particular over western Scotland, where totals could exceed 30-50 mm in 6-9 hours, increasing the risk of localised flooding. Forecasts and warnings will be updated as the situation becomes more clear, therefore it is important to keep an eye forecast for your area over the coming days.”

Met Office warnings highlight the possibility for disruption to transport, power supplies, and outdoor activities, especially from Friday evening into Saturday.

Martin Thomson from Transport Scotland said: “Storm Amy is set to bring heavy rain and strong winds to parts of Scotland and we expect to see disruption to the transport network in the warning areas.

“The rain and wind will bring difficult driving conditions, such as reduced visibility and surface water, and are also likely to affect the ferry and rail networks, so it’s important to plan your journey ahead of time.

“Motorists should use the Traffic Scotland website before they set off to make sure that their route is available, and you should check with your operator if you are planning to travel on trains, ferries and flights.”

Storm naming

Storm Amy has been named in line with the Met Office’s storm naming protocol, which aims to improve public awareness and readiness for impactful weather. National Severe Weather Warnings will be issued as confidence in the track and intensity of the system increases.

The storm’s evolution is being closely monitored, with its development influenced by the remnants of Hurricanes Humberto and Imelda over the tropical Atlantic. These systems have accelerated the jet stream, contributing to the formation and intensification of Storm Amy.

Ahead of Storm Amy

A yellow rain warning is currently in place for heavy rain which is continuing to affect western Scotland throughout today and tomorrow (Thursday) allowing large rainfall totals to build up. The heaviest rain will be over hills and mountains.

A further 30-50 mm of rain is expected to fall here, with as much as 60-80 mm over west-facing mountains from late Wednesday through to Thursday night.

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