Storm Amy could become a ‘weather bomb’

‘Storm Amy’ is set to hit the UK on Friday and Saturday. Weather experts from the University of Reading comment on the storm’s formation, how to keep safe and the risk of flooding. To arrange interviews, contact the University of Reading Press Office on 0118 378 5757 or pressoffice@reading.ac.uk

Dr Oscar Martinez-Alvarado said: "Storm Amy looks quite remarkable. It is developing in the wake of Hurricane Humberto, which has been churning unusually close to another hurricane, Imelda, in the western Atlantic. While Amy is not the same storm, the remnants of Humberto have helped to feed it with warmth and moisture as it turns into a mid-latitude storm on its way towards the UK. 

“Storm Amy could become what meteorologists call a weather bomb, when a storm intensifies very rapidly. This usually means the central pressure falls by about 24 millibars in 24 hours, though the exact threshold varies with latitude. Forecasts suggest Amy could deepen by around 40 millibars in the 24 hours before it reaches us, which would make it fast-developing and potentially dangerous. 

“Satellite imagery shows a ribbon of warm, moist air, linked to Humberto, being drawn into the storm. As Amy’s winds lift and circulate this moisture, it will drive the heavy rainfall we are expecting, particularly in western Scotland. 

“There is still uncertainty about the storm’s exact track and strength. The current yellow warnings for both wind and rain reflect that uncertainty. They mean there is a lower likelihood but medium potential impact, and the warnings may change as we get closer to landfall.”

Professor Hannah Cloke said: “It is important to prepare ahead of bad weather, so that people are not impacted by travel disruption, power outages and dangerous conditions, especially along coastlines and in high wind areas. 

"Flooding is often a risk in storms, so if you haven't already, people should check their flood risk online on the UK government "check flooding" website. If you're in a vulnerable area, there are lots of actions you can do to keep yourself and your property safe. It is much easier and safer to move cars, furniture, and irreplaceable items  before the storm hits or the floodwaters get into your house. 

"For those at risk of flooding, act quickly when it's safe to do so. Turn off gas and electricity supplies, move valuables to higher ground, and relocate to safety if necessary.

"If you must travel, expect delays and come prepared with spare warm clothes, blankets, bottled water, a torch, and ensure your vehicle is well-fuelled and maintained. 

"People should not be complacent just because conditions seem calm where you are. Weather warnings are in place because conditions can change rapidly, and severe effects can be extremely localised. 

"These warnings aren't overcautious. They are based on careful calculations that factor in both the liklihood of bad impacts occurring, and the severity if they do occur, and are only issued when they are needed to save lives and protect our communities."

Dr Jess Neumann said: "The first named storm of the 2025-26 season is nearly upon us - there is some uncertainty over the track that Storm Amy will take over the UK, but she is expected to hit western and northern parts of the UK late on Friday and in to Saturday. 

"Storm Amy is forecast to bring strong winds and potentially heavy rain which could damage buildings and infrastructure, lead to localised flooding and cause severe travel delays. 

"Parts of the UK which are not expected to be directly hit by Storm Amy, such as the south east will also feel the affects with some strong winds (40-50mph) and heavy rain causing disruption. 

"In parts of northern England and Scotland, recent rainfall over the past few days increases the chance of flooding and associated hazards such as landslides. 

"But don't be tricked into underestimating the flood risk in areas that haven't seen rain recently - intense heavy rain falling on dry soils and manmade surfaces can create a perfect storm for flash flooding. 

"People should check their flood risk online and remain vigilant. Having a flood preparedness plan in place can help save lives, property and valuables."