Storm Lilian is set to batter parts of the UK on Friday (August 23) bringing with it strong winds and heavy rain, the Met Office has revealed.

Storm Lilian will move northeast early on Friday morning, bringing strong winds for northern England and Wales, as well as parts of southern Scotland. 

There are various yellow weather warnings set to be in place as a result of the latest storm with the likelihood these conditions could cause potential travel disruption, power cuts and pose a danger to life.

Met Office Chief Meteorologist Jason Kelly said: “Storm Lilian will bring some potentially damaging gusts during Friday morning, with gusts widely in the 50-60mph range, with the possibility of some gusts in excess of 75mph in a few places.

“There’s associated rainfall with Lilian that has also resulted in a Met Office warning for parts of Scotland. Within the warning area, another 50mm of rain is possible over high ground, with 20-30mm falling quite widely. Much of this is falling on saturated ground so increases the chance of some surface water flooding.”

Storm Lilian will move into the North Sea on Friday morning, with reducing winds and scattered showers following for most, though further rain is likely in southern England by the end of the day.

This is the twelfth named storm of the season (which runs from September 2023 to September 2024).

This is the furthest through the list of names the Western European storm naming group has gotten since storm naming was introduced in 2015.

What to expect from Storm Lilian

The Met Office said the yellow weather warnings associated with Storm Lilian are due to "strong winds, which may lead to disruption to travel and infrastructure".

Storm Lilian could also cause:

  • Damage to buildings (such as tiles blown from roofs)
  • Injuries and danger to life from flying debris
  • Power cuts and disruptions to other services (such as mobile phone coverage)
  • Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
  • Roads and bridges may close
  • Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible

A Met Office spokesperson added: "An area of strong winds associated with Storm Lilian is expected to move east across northern England during Friday morning.

"Whilst there remains some uncertainty about the details, some very strong winds are likely to develop, with gusts widely in the 50 to 60mph range, with a lower chance that a small core of winds gusting 65-75 mph, perhaps 80 mph, could push quickly east during the morning.

"These winds are likely to affect major routes such as the M6, A66 and A1(M), as well as potentially impacting infrastructure.

"As well as the strong winds, some locally heavy rainfall will add to the difficult travel conditions."

How to prepare for Storm Lilian

The Met Office has issued advice on how to prepare for Storm Lilian and the yellow weather warnings associated with it.

A Met Office spokesperson said: "Prepare to protect your property and people from injury.

"Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences.

"Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

"People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.

RECOMMENDED READING:

"If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea.

"Take care if walking near cliffs; know your route and keep dogs on a lead. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

"Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly. When a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area."

Yellow weather warnings for Storm Lilian will be in place from 5am until 11am on Friday (August 23).