Storm Darragh: FAW postpones all saturday football matches and RNLI issues coastal safety warnings

Severe weather warnings issued by the Met Office for Storm Darragh are expected to cause significant disruption across Wales this weekend, prompting the Football Association of Wales (FAW) to postpone all matches scheduled for Saturday, 7 December.

The storm is predicted to bring damaging winds up to 80 mph and heavy rainfall, with Amber, Yellow, and  a rare Red warnings in place.

The RNLI has also urged caution, particularly for those near the coast, as the stormy weather poses serious safety risks.

Football Matches Postponed Amid Safety Concerns

The FAW announced that Saturday’s football matches across Wales will not go ahead, citing dangerous travel conditions and safety risks for players and fans.

The postponement comes after the Met Office advised against unnecessary travel during the extreme weather event.

“It is not safe to drive in such weather, including travelling to and from football matches,” the FAW stated.

“Being outside in high winds increases the risk of injury, and The Met Office advises people to stay indoors if possible.”

Fixtures scheduled for Friday, 6 December, and Sunday, 8 December, will be reviewed individually based on local weather conditions.

Clubs have been advised to secure loose items such as bins, goalposts, and fences if it can be done safely.

RNLI Warns of Coastal Risks

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has issued a warning to those planning to visit the coast, urging extreme caution due to the risks posed by Storm Darragh’s strong winds and rough seas.

Amber warnings for wind will be in force from early Saturday morning until late evening, with Yellow warnings for rain continuing until early Sunday morning.

Chris Cousens, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead, emphasised the dangers:

“We know the predicted weather this week could lead to dangerous and uncertain conditions. If you plan on visiting the coast, the RNLI advises that you stay a safe distance from the water as conditions could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea. It is not worth risking your life.”

The RNLI has provided the following safety advice:

• Stay well back from stormy seas and cliff edges.
• Check the weather forecast and tide times before heading out.
• Carry a phone with you.
• In an emergency, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Amber Warning for Flintshire: What to Expect

In Flintshire, an Amber warning for wind is in effect from 1 am to 9 pm on Saturday, with gusts of up to 80 mph in coastal areas and 70 mph inland. The strongest winds are expected on Saturday morning, easing later in the day.

A Yellow warning for rain remains in force until early Sunday.

The Met Office has highlighted potential risks, including:

• Flying debris and falling trees, posing a danger to life.
• Structural damage to homes, such as dislodged roof tiles.
• Disruption to transport, including road closures and delays to buses, trains, and flights.
• Power outages affecting services like mobile networks.
• Coastal impacts, with large waves and debris posing risks on seafronts and roads.

Flintshire Bridge Closure

Flintshire County Council has announced the closure of the A548 Flintshire Bridge from 1 am on Saturday due to safety concerns. The bridge will remain closed until conditions improve, with updates provided on social media.

Prepare for Disruptions

Residents are advised to secure outdoor items, such as bins and garden furniture, that could become hazardous in high winds. Non-essential travel should be avoided, particularly in high-sided vehicles or coastal areas prone to storm surges.

Rare Red Warning

While Flintshire remains under an Amber warning, western and southern coastal regions, including Conwy, Gwynedd, and Anglesey, are under a rare Red warning for wind from 3 am to 11 am on Saturday.

Gusts of 90 mph or more are expected, creating life-threatening conditions.

The Met Office has described this as “a period of extremely strong winds” likely to cause widespread disruption.

Although the Red warning does not directly affect Flintshire, its proximity highlights the severity of the storm.

Residents and visitors are urged to monitor updates from the Met Office, local authorities, and the RNLI.