Alarming images depict swimmers defying severe weather warnings by venturing into the turbulent sea during Storm Amy. The storm, impacting Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Ireland, brings heavy rain and winds reaching up to 100mph in coastal areas.
Despite the red weather alert in Ireland, two men were spotted swimming at Blackrock Diving Tower in Galway. The Met Office in Britain has issued an amber wind warning for Friday afternoon to evening, cautioning about gusts of 60-70mph inland and up to 80mph along exposed coastlines.
Storm Amy has triggered weather alerts nationwide for intense rainfall and strong winds, with yellow wind warnings across the UK. Met Office Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong warns of potential 100mph gusts in western Scotland, posing risks of disruptions, power outages, and structural damage.
Past storm records show wind speeds reaching 80-90mph, with the highest UK October gust hitting 124mph in 1989. Travelers in Scotland are advised to expect transportation disruptions due to the storm. Transport Scotland’s Martin Thomson advises planning ahead and monitoring the Traffic Scotland website for updates.
Environment Agency’s Sarah Cook warns of heavy rainfall leading to minor flooding in northern England and the Midlands. She advises caution near rivers and coastal paths and discourages driving through floodwaters due to the risks involved.