Amber warning issued as Storm Darragh set to hit parts of Wales

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It follows Storm Bert which recently saw rising water levels reported in towns across the country, as well as landslides in certain areas. Credit: ITV Cymru Wales

The Met Office has warned severe weather may hit Wales as Storm Darragh is set to arrive this weekend.

It follows chaos caused by Storm Bert just one week ago.

An amber weather warning has been issued for parts of Wales, as well as three yellow warnings with expected winds of around 70mph.

The first yellow warning is in place from 3pm on Thursday 5 December to 6am on Friday 6 December.

The Met Office has also put in place a second yellow warning for Wales from 3pm on Friday until 6am on Sunday.

An amber warning has also been issued on Saturday from 3am to 9pm, with an additional yellow warning for wind in place until 6am on Sunday.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has also issued three flood warnings for rivers Tawe, Loughor and Ely, as well as 24 flood alerts across Wales.

People are being advised of a “danger to life” from flying debris as well as from large waves at the coast.

There could also be possible delays to road, rail and ferry travel during the poor weather.

It comes just weeks after Storm Bert which saw torrential downpours and devastating flooding.

In light of Saturday's amber warning, the Met Office said: "A period of very strong northerly or northwesterly winds is likely to develop during Saturday as Storm Darragh moves from west to east.

"Gusts of 70 to 80 mph are likely around exposed coasts and headlands, where some very large waves are likely, whilst gusts of 60 to 70 mph are likely inland. The strongest winds will ease from the west through the afternoon."

People are being warned to take steps to protect their property by checking loose items outside their homes including bins, garden furniture, trampolines, sheds and fences.

The Met Office added in the warning: “If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea.”

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