Christmas Markets Delayed Due to Storm Darragh Warnings

Several Christmas markets have been rescheduled following alerts about severe weather conditions expected this weekend, attributed to Storm Darragh. Stratford-on-Avon District Council stated that its decision to cancel was “disappointing news” for all involved, emphasizing that the safety of traders, staff, and the public was the primary concern. CJ Events also announced the cancellation of its markets in Rugby and Warwick scheduled for Saturday, and Leamington for Sunday, citing the reason as “due to the storm”. The Met Office has issued a yellow wind warning for the region, indicating potential damage to buildings, closures of roads and bridges, falling trees, power outages, and airborne debris. Storm Darragh is predicted to approach from the west on Friday evening, initially impacting Wales and Bristol, before progressing across much of the UK through Saturday and potentially into Sunday. Wind speeds are projected to surpass 60mph, a velocity deemed a danger to life, according to the council. “This is extremely disappointing news for all, however, the safety of our traders, staff and the public must be at the forefront of all decisions,” Stratford council communicated in an official statement. Plans are underway for alternative arrangements to host the market, with specific details yet to be finalized. The council confirmed that the town’s second Christmas market remains scheduled for the subsequent weekend of 14 and 15 December, as originally planned. A rare red weather warning has been issued for Saturday, encompassing areas of Wales, the Bristol Channel, and Bristol. For updates, follow BBC Coventry & Warwickshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.