Storm Darragh Triggers Event Cancellations and Travel Disruptions Across Western England

Storm Darragh is projected to deliver “damaging winds” to the West of England this weekend, leading to event cancellations and anticipated travel disruption. A rare red warning has been issued for Saturday, affecting sections of Bristol and west Somerset, where wind gusts reaching up to 90mph are predicted in certain localities. The Bath Christmas Market will not proceed on Saturday, citing the “safety of stall holders, visitors and staff,” a decision mirrored by several other Christmas lights events. Bristol Airport has indicated that disruptions are anticipated, advising passengers to verify their flight status with their respective airlines prior to departure. This warning is effective from 03:00 to 11:00 GMT on Saturday, encompassing the western and southern coastal areas of Wales, alongside the Bristol Channel in England. Red weather warnings represent the highest level of severity, issued exclusively when meteorological experts foresee potentially life-threatening weather conditions. On Facebook, Bath Christmas Market stated: “We take the safety of the public, stall holders and our staff seriously. “With this in mind and the Met Office forecast of winds exceeding 60mph from Storm Darragh we have taken the decision not to open Bath Christmas Market tomorrow, Saturday 7 December.” Charles Minty, an artist vending at the Bath Christmas Market, described the weekend as critically important. He informed the BBC, “This weekend would have been crucial for me,” adding, “[It’s] disappointing for us as businesses and for those coming along, but I wouldn’t be able to sell and work in those conditions.” Gloucester Quays announced that its Christmas market would also remain closed on December 7 and 8, attributing the closure to strong winds. The Bristol Zoo Project is likewise scheduled for closure because of the weather warning. Additionally, festive light displays in Westonbirt, Clevedon, Swindon, and Langport have been canceled, as the weather alert signifies a “danger to life.” Among the events canceled for this weekend are: Longleat in Wiltshire, presently hosting its Festival of Light, has also informed patrons of its closure for Saturday, stating the measure is “to ensure people are kept safe.” A spokesperson commented, “We know this will be disappointing and we will be contacting you shortly by email to outline alternatives for you to consider.” The Environment Agency has advised individuals to maintain a safe distance from coastal paths, piers, and promenades, anticipating elevated wave conditions. Furthermore, flood warnings have been issued for sections of Wiltshire and Somerset, with alerts also active for Bristol and Gloucestershire. Gloucestershire County Council has cautioned about potential travel delays, citing the “risk of road closures due to fallen trees.” Bristol Waste has announced that no collections will occur on Saturday, requesting residents to secure their bins and, if feasible, bring them indoors. Regarding rail services, Great Western Railway stated that speed restrictions would be implemented throughout its network, and fallen trees could additionally affect operations. For Sunday, the recommendation is to undertake travel solely when absolutely essential. The Met Office indicated that a phase of exceptionally strong winds is expected to emerge during the early hours of Saturday morning. It further stated: “Gusts of 90mph or more are possible over coasts and hills of west and south Wales, as well as funnelling through the Bristol Channel with some very large waves on exposed beaches.” For updates, follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.