Severe weather warning issued ahead of weekend

Gale force winds expected to hit the district on Saturday

The weekend is (almost) here, which can only mean one thing – gale force winds are coming to West Berkshire.

The Met Office has issued a severe weather warning this morning [Friday] for a full day of gales as strong as 60 mph.

The yellow weather warning, in effect between 2am and 9pm on Saturday, is in force across the whole of the south east and forecaster’s are warning of disruption to travel and outdoor activities throughout the day.

The Met Office explained: “A spell of unseasonably strong southwestern winds, accompanied by heavy, blustery showers, is expected to reach the southwest of the UK during the early hours of Saturday, moving east across many parts of England and Wales through the day.

“Gusts are expected to reach 40 to 50 mph inland, and 50 to very locally 60 mph along exposed coastlines in the south and west.

“Please be aware that these winds may lead to disruption to transport, and in view of the time of the year, there is increased potential for disruption to outdoor activities.”

The strongest winds are expected to hit inland areas during the afternoon accompanied by heavy showers.