Storm Floris Warning for Formby - Danger To Life as 70mph Winds Approach

Formby Bubble
Aug 1
2 min read

Formby is bracing for potentially dangerous weather conditions as Storm Floris is set to sweep through the area from early Monday morning, with the Met Office issuing a Yellow Weather Warning for Wind.

The warning is in place from 6am on Monday, August 4th until 6am on Tuesday, August 5th, and covers the entire Formby area — including the village centre, Freshfield, the Pinewoods, Victoria Road, Lifeboat Road, and the beach.

According to forecasters, the storm will bring “a spell of unseasonably strong winds” to our coastline, with gusts of up to 70mph expected in the most exposed areas.

High Risk for Formby’s Coastline and Village

The Met Office says that:

Injuries and danger to life are possible from flying debris
Damage to buildings may occur, including slates or tiles being blown from rooftops
Large waves and beach material could be thrown onto Formby Beach, dunes, coastal roads, and properties near the seafront
Power cuts are possible, and could impact mobile phone signals and broadband
There could be delays or closures on roads, especially near the Formby Bypass or tree-lined routes like Kirklake Road, St Luke’s Church Road, and Larkhill Lane

Formby Beach & Pinewoods: Stay Away During the Storm

Local authorities and safety groups are warning residents and visitors to avoid the beach and Pinewoods area during the storm, particularly around high tide. Waves, sand spray, and strong winds may create hazardous conditions for walkers, families, and cyclists.

Access roads such as Lifeboat Road, Victoria Road, and the Coastal Path may become dangerous due to blowing debris or falling branches.

Local Preparations Urged

Residents are being advised to:

Secure bins, plant pots, garden furniture, and trampolines
Keep pets indoors and check on elderly neighbours
Avoid unnecessary travel, especially near the coast
Charge phones in case of power outages

With many homes in Formby close to tree-lined streets, the risk of fallen branches or obstructed roads is high. Emergency services and Sefton Council will be on standby throughout the duration of the storm.

Heavy Rainfall May Add to Disruption

Alongside the wind, heavy rain is also expected, increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying areas such as near Altcar Road, Duke Street Park, and Formby Station underpass. Residents are urged to stay alert to local weather updates and report flooding to Sefton Council.

Formby: One of the Most Exposed Areas in Sefton

As a coastal village, Formby is expected to take a direct hit from Storm Floris. The Met Office has specifically warned about coastal locations along the Irish Sea, with Formby, Ainsdale and Southport listed among those most at risk.

The storm is part of a wider system hitting much of northern England, but Formby’s position on the coastline makes it especially vulnerable to severe gusts, blown debris, and sea spray.

Stay safe, Formby – and please take this storm warning seriously.

Let’s all look out for each other during this period of extreme weather.