Leeds weather: Hour-by-hour wind forecast today as weather warning issued

The Met Office has issued a Yellow weather warning for wind across West Yorkshire, remaining in force until 8pm tonight, with part of a wider "moderate" warning covering much of Northern England and Scotland,

The alert warns of gusts of 50-55mph widely across the region, with up to 70mph possible in more exposed areas - but what does that mean for Leeds the rest of the day?

Here’s a look at the average wind speeds across the city for the remainder of the day, and key advice if you happen to be driving during the most blustery of conditions todays.

Hour-by-hour forecast today

While the winds were a force to be reckoned with overnight, they are set to gradually settle according to the Met Office.

After reaching peak speeds of 25 mph early this afternoon, the breeze will steadily ease into a much calmer night.

• 1pm - 25mph
• 2pm - 25mph
• 3pm - 24mph
• 4pm - 21mph
• 5pm - 19mph
• 6pm - 17mph
• 7pm - 16mph
• 8pm - 15mph
• 9pm - 13mph
• 10pm - 11mph
• 11pm - 11mph

Is it still safe to drive in Leeds today?

The short answer is yes, but with a ‘firm grip’ caveat.

While the city's 22 mph average is below the dangerous threshold of 45 mph+, the Met Office warns that high-sided vehicles and those on exposed routes - particularly the M62 or M1 viaducts - should still expect significant buffeting.

If you are travelling today in Leeds, heed the following advice from the RAC:

• Firm Grip, Gentle Steering: Keep both hands on the wheel at all times. If a sudden gust hits you, steer gently to correct your position—sudden jerks can cause you to lose control.
• The ‘Overtaking Gap’: Give cyclists, motorcyclists, and lorries extra room. A single gust can push a cyclist across a whole lane in a second.
• Watch for ‘Wind Tunnels’: Be extra alert when passing gaps in buildings or hedges, or when crossing exposed bridges (like the M62 Ouse Bridge if you're heading out of town).