RNLI urges ‘extreme caution’ as double storms collide

The UK is bracing for widespread disruption, flooding and potential power cuts, as forecasters warn Storm Dudley and Storm Eunice will collide this week, bringing winds of up to 90mph.

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is encouraging people to exercise extreme caution if visiting the shoreline, especially along exposed cliffs, seafronts and piers.

Storm Dudley is due to affect Ireland, Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of northern England from this afternoon (Wednesday) through to Thursday, with Storm Eunice close behind, bringing strong winds and potentially some snow on Friday.

A 300-foot wind turbine was sent crashing to the ground in Wales on Tuesday, according to media reports, as wind speeds began to pick up.

The Met Office has issued a ‘danger to life’ warning, which says: “Injuries and danger to life is likely from large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and properties.”

RNLI national water safety partner, Samantha Hughes says: “The expected storms could make our seas treacherous, increasing the risk for those visiting the coast around the UK and Ireland.

“In a normal year around, 150 people lose their lives at the coast and we know that more than half of those never intended to be in the water,” she adds. “So, whether you are walking, running or cycling at the coast, please be extra responsible and avoid taking unnecessary risk or entering the water.

“In particular, we ask people to stay well back from stormy, wintery seas and cliff edges, check tide times before you go, take a phone with you, and call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard if you or someone else is in trouble.”

Met Office chief meteorologist Paul Gundersen says: “An active jet stream is driving these two low-pressure systems across the country this week and a number of National Severe Weather Warnings have been issued.”

Meteorologist Alex Deakin is live on the Met Office’s YouTube channel this afternoon, discussing the impact of the two storms this week and taking safety questions from viewers. Readers can view the stream below: