The Gibraltar Met Office has issued an Early Weather Warning of Severe Weather affecting Gibraltar during Thursday 1st and Friday 2nd March.

Strong to gale force winds and heavy rainfall are expected to affect Gibraltar during Thursday and Friday. During this 48 hour period, rainfall totals of up to 150mm are possible. At the moment, exact timing for the periods of heaviest rain are uncertain, but the current indications are that Thursday morning and Friday morning are at greatest risk of prolonged heavy rain.

During Thursday, south-westerly winds will reach 30-35kt with gusts of 45-50kt during the middle of the day on Thursday. However,winds may exceed this value near high rise buildings and exposed areas. Winds will ease for a time before increasing again on Friday and into the weekend although they should not be as strong.

The general public is advised that the heavy rains may cause localised flooding in certain areas and particular care should be taken whilst driving. Strong winds may also cause some damage and increase the risk of injury from flying debris. Where possible, loose objects (such as ladders, garden furniture, wheelie bins, etc) should be secured, as should anything else that could cause damage if dislodged by strong winds. Disruption to travel is likely to be experienced during this period.

(Definitions of Trigger Criteria: Severe Gale - Sustained mean wind speed > 45 KT and/or gusts > 55 KT. Heavy rain > 50mm in a six hour period. Swell > 4metre height.)