As Storm Pia approaches the UK with winds up to 80mph, the Met Office warns of high winds for the north of the country on Thursday, which could disrupt travel plans before Christmas.

The yellow wind warning, which was issued on Monday, has been revised, with the end time moved to 9pm and the warning impact level changed.

Northern Scotland could face winds of 70-80mph, with 65-70mph on higher ground.

Other areas of Scotland, as well as Northern Ireland, North Wales and England from Birmingham upwards, as well as the upper half of East Anglia, could experience winds of 45-55mph.

The agency said that travel plans could be affected, and power cuts could occur.

Exposed roads and coastal routes could be affected by high-sided vehicles and high waves.

The Danish authorities have named the low-pressure system Storm Pia, but it was not expected to be severe enough in the UK to be officially named.

Met Office spokesperson Stephen Dixon said: “The wind warning area is quite wide. Gusts are expected across a large area.”

The Met Office predicts showers along with the wind, with more rain to come on Friday.

Mr Dixon said that snow could fall on Christmas Day in the far north of Scotland.

He said: “The south of the UK could have a drier afternoon for those who want to go for a walk after Christmas dinner.”

Source