Gloucestershire is preparing for Storm Bram as heavy rain and strong winds are expected to impact the county from Monday evening through Tuesday afternoon. The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain covering most of Gloucestershire, effective from 6pm Monday until 2pm Tuesday.
Residents are advised to anticipate potential flooding and travel disruptions, with fast-flowing or deep floodwaters posing serious safety risks. Storm Bram, named by Met Eireann—the Irish equivalent of the Met Office—is set to track north and west of the UK on Monday, bringing significant rainfall and gusty winds to affected areas.
In Gloucestershire, the peak of the storm is forecast between 10pm Monday and 7am Tuesday, bringing heavy rain. Afterward, lighter showers will continue until around 3pm Tuesday. Wind gusts may reach up to 47 mph by midday Tuesday.
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Met Office chief forecaster Dan Suri explained, “Storm Bram will cause a very wet and windy spell. Strong winds combined with heavy rain on already saturated ground could lead to flooding issues.” He added that northwest Scotland faces an amber warning with gusts potentially reaching 90 mph. Meanwhile, parts of Wales, southwest England, and Northern Ireland may experience gusts between 50 and 70 mph.
The storm might dump up to 100mm of rain over higher ground in southern Wales and parts of Devon, which could warrant stronger warnings if conditions worsen. The public is urged to stay updated on forecasts and monitor flood alerts from local authorities.
Safety measures recommended include securing loose outdoor items like ladders and garden furniture, fastening doors and windows securely, and parking vehicles in garages if possible.
Storm Bram is expected to begin moving away on Wednesday, leaving windy conditions primarily in northern England. By Thursday, much of the UK should see drier weather, though frost might occur in central and southeastern regions.
Alice Simpson, RAC breakdown spokesperson, warned, “Strong winds make vehicles harder to control. Drivers should reduce speed and maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel. Rural and coastal routes will be most affected by gusts and potential debris, so checking local forecasts and postponing non-essential travel is advised.”
Transport disruptions are likely as high winds and heavy rain may affect road, rail, air, and ferry services, including buses and trains. Residents should plan accordingly and exercise caution during the storm.