Farmers warned as Storm Ashley approaches – Farmers Guide

Met Office has announced that Storm Ashley is going to bring unsettled weather through Sunday, 20th October, and into Monday, 21st October. 

The experts added that although Friday is expected to be dry for most of the country, a low-pressure system will bring strong winds to the north and west.  

This combined with high spring tides may result in some coastal impacts, potentially continuing into the weekend on some coasts.   

A Yellow National Severe Weather Warning for wind has been issued for Friday.   

Met Office chief meteorologist Jason Kelly said: “A period of strong south to southeasterly winds is likely across western Scotland on Friday morning into the early afternoon, before easing and turning southwesterly through the afternoon.   

“Wind gusts of 45-55mph are possible fairly widely for a time, and perhaps in excess of 60mph in more exposed locations. Given the wind direction and high spring tides, some disruption is possible.”  

Things will be dry and brighter further south and east, with temperatures near normal or just above average.   

Wet and windy Sunday 

As we head into the weekend, the weather will remain unsettled, with further rain at times on Saturday, but clearing to bring a dry and fine end to the day for most, Met Office confirmed. 

By Sunday, there is a chance that a particularly deep area of low pressure will arrive from the Atlantic, bringing more widespread strong winds, especially in northern and western areas, with potential for some disruption in places.  

A Yellow National Severe Weather Warning for wind is currently in place from 3am on Sunday until midday on Monday. 

Tony Wisson, deputy chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “At present, a windy period is expected across the whole of the UK on Sunday and into Monday, but across parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, Northwest England and North West Wales, there is an increased chance of some disruption.  

“Initially a period of strong south to southeasterly winds will likely develop through Sunday morning, with gusts of 50-60mph possible in some inland areas, especially Northern Ireland and western Scotland, and perhaps up to 60-70mph along exposed coasts and hills.   

“Winds will then likely turn southwesterly, with a period of especially strong winds possible during Sunday afternoon and evening in western Scotland, where gusts could potentially reach 70-80mph in exposed areas, and more generally 55-65mph in other parts of the warning area. These strong winds in conjunction with high spring tides, may cause some disruption.  

“It’s likely that Sunday’s wind warning will be updated and refined as confidence increases, and more warnings for the rainfall that is expected is likely. It is therefore important people stay up to date with the latest forecast.”  

How you can protect yourself and your farm

Before the storm:  

• Stay alert for Met Office weather warnings.   
• Regularly inspect your farm and keep on top of maintenance by carrying out necessary repairs to buildings, fences and walls while the weather is calm.   
• Check that tiles, slates, and roofing sheets are in place, and put away any items that cannot be secured.   
• Avoid being near barn doors if there are high winds.  
• Make sure gutters are not leaking and are clear of leaves and other debris.   
• Protect and lag water pipes in vulnerable areas, and know where the water supply is so that you can turn it off in the event of burst pipes.    
• Ensure you have a good tree inspection programme in place, paying particular attention to trees bordering buildings, roads, railway lines and rights of way.   
• Prepare for power cuts: have torches and batteries to hand, and make sure any generators are ready to use if required.   
• Plan evacuation routes to get staff and livestock to safety in the case of extreme weather, such as floods – identify higher ground that you can move livestock to in the event of flooding.   
• Have your insurer’s emergency helpline available.  

During the storm:   

• Do not leave the house or make journeys unless absolutely necessary.   
• If you need to leave the house, avoid the sheltered side of walls when walking.   
• If journeys are essential, drive slowly and carefully, staying aware of high winds on exposed roads and ice and water on the road.   
• Do not attempt emergency repairs during the storm.   
• Keep all building doors and windows closed.   

After:  

• Be aware that after a storm or weather event, power cables or powerlines may have been brought down.    
• Don’t enter any buildings that could be unsafe following a storm.   
• Report any damage to your insurer as soon as possible.    

Check the weather here. 

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