Travelling home for Christmas this week? You may want to check the roads before you set off as a storm in brewing.
Storm Barbara is set to hit shores just in time for Christmas bringing with it strong winds of up to 70mph and rain is set to descend on parts of the south of England.
A "yellow" weather warning is in place for Wednesday December 21 for north and northwest Scotland, and parts of England are expected to feel to force of the storm by Friday December 23 and over the Christmas weekend.
The Met Office has predicted wind gust speeds of up to 35mph in London on Christmas Day and whilst they have yet to name a storm, the next one on their list is Storm Barbara.
Deputy chief meteorologist, Martin Young, said: “The exact track and impact of this system is still uncertain but very strong winds and some heavy rain are expected.
"At the moment it looks like northern and western areas will be worst affected. However this situation could change.
“The disturbed conditions look like continuing through Christmas weekend with the chance another vigorous low pressure system may head our way.
"Therefore it is worth staying up to date with the latest forecasts."
The RAC has predicted a 20% increase in breakdowns over the stormy period.
Pete Williams, spokesman for the RAC warns motorists: “It looks like a storm-force Christmas on the roads.
“Conditions could turn treacherous with high winds and the risk of standing water flooding roads.
“People should consider changing journeys times to avoid the worst conditions and plan a back-up route."
What's the reason for the sudden change in weather?
Paul Gunderson, Met Office chief forecaster said the change in weather is caused by a "strong jet stream coming out of Northern USA and Canada, driven by a strong temperature contrast across Northern America."
He added this "will come quickly across the Atlantic, spinning up a whole series of deep depressions, meaning strong winds and heavy rain at times".
Whilst the worst of the weather is predicted in the north west, advice it to check before making your journey home for Christmas.
The storm comes just one month on from Storm Angus, which brought 97mph winds to our shores.
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