Yellow weather warning for wind issued for Folkestone and Romney Marsh
Published: 08:43, 31 December 2023
Updated: 09:30, 31 December 2023
A yellow weather warning for wind, which could see gales up to 75mph, has been issued in parts of Kent.
Covering coastal areas including Folkestone and Romney Marsh, the alert has been issued by the Met Office from 10am until 11:59pm today.
Weather experts say gales or severe gales with heavy showers may lead to disruption to transport and infrastructure.
Winds could reach 50-55 mph, with potential for gusts of 65-75 mph for the most exposed coasts and hills.
Alongside the gusty weather, those in the affected areas may also see hail and possibly thunder.
People are also being warned to expect some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport as the wind takes hold while those driving high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges could be delayed too.
Large waves are expected to batter the coasts meaning residents living near the sea could be affected by spray.
The strong wind could also see short-term loss of power and other services.
A weather warning for wind was last issued on Friday, December 29 for the whole county with forecasters warning of likely travel disruption and large waves crashing over seafronts.
However, this alert ended at 3am with a fresh warning coming into force from 10am.
Meanwhile, a flood warning has been issued for the River Medway from Forest Row to Penshurst, including Ashurst.
Environment Agency bosses are warning showers are forecast this morning and further rain is due later on New Year's Day meaning river levels could rise and remain relatively high until at least Tuesday.
“Our incident response staff are closing flood gates and checking defences,” a spokesperson said.
“Avoid using low-lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses and do not attempt to walk or drive through flood water.”
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Chantal Weller