Storm Darragh: Flintshire Bridge to close on Saturday amid AMBER wind warning

Flintshire residents are preparing for the impacts of Storm Darragh, which is set to bring potentially damaging winds and heavy rainfall to large parts of the UK, including Flintshire.

Flintshire Council has announced the planned closure of the A548 Flintshire Bridge from 1am on Saturday, 7 December, in response to an amber weather warning for wind issued by the Met Office.

The closure will remain in place until conditions improve, with updates expected as the forecast evolves.

“Timings are subject to forecast changes, so follow us to keep up to date,” the council stated on social media.

The Met Office has warned of inland gusts of 60–70 mph, with speeds reaching up to 80 mph along exposed coasts and headlands.

The amber warning is in effect from 3am to 9pm on Saturday, with strong winds likely to cause disruption to travel, power supplies, and infrastructure.

Severe Weather Impacts

Storm Darragh is the latest in a series of unsettled weather systems affecting the UK, with a large area of low pressure bringing strong winds and heavy rain to the warning area.

The heaviest rainfall is predicted to hit northern and western parts of the UK, while gusty winds could bring travel delays and dangerous driving conditions.

National Highways has urged drivers to exercise caution, especially on exposed routes. Dale Hipkiss, Duty Manager at National Highways, advised:

“If you’re planning to drive over the next few days, prepare in advance for the journey and take extra care on the roads. If weather conditions become challenging, adjust your driving behaviour to manage the conditions as safely as possible. It’s also a good idea for drivers to check their vehicles, such as tyres, coolant and oil levels, before heading out to reduce the risk of breakdowns.”

Local Preparations

The planned closure of Flintshire Bridge is a precautionary measure to ensure public safety amid the challenging weather conditions.

Residents and commuters are encouraged to plan their journeys carefully and stay updated on changes to the forecast.

Storm Darragh is expected to subside by late Saturday evening, but residents are advised to remain cautious and monitor updates from the Met Office.