Strong Winds Cause Widespread Disruption As Isle Of Wight Braces For Further Gales

Strong winds are causing widespread disruption across the Isle of Wight this morning (Friday), with transport services affected and several popular attractions closing for the day.

IW Met Service says conditions will deteriorate as the morning progresses, with northwesterly winds expected to reach 39–68mph by midday.

The Island remains under a yellow weather warning until 8pm tonight.

Around 23mm of rain fell overnight, with a further 2–5mm forecast today, although some brighter and drier spells are possible later.

Travel Disruption

Hovertravel has suspended its Ryde to Southsea service because of the adverse conditions.

Wightlink says it is operating to a revised timetable, with several car ferry and FastCat crossings cancelled.

Passengers affected by the changes are being contacted with alternative sailing arrangements.

A spokesperson said:

"To keep our customers safe, we have cancelled several Car Ferry and FastCat sailings and are contacting all affected customers to offer an alternative sailing time.

"Safety must come first, and we will only operate services where conditions allow."

Red Funnel's vehicle ferry service between East Cowes and Southampton is currently running to time.

Meanwhile, Island Line expects weather conditions to prevent trains from using Ryde Pier later this morning.

Services will instead operate between Ryde Esplanade and Shanklin, with a replacement minibus connecting Ryde Esplanade and Ryde Pier Head between 9.30am and 12.30pm.

Fallen trees are also affecting the Island's roads, including Military Road near Brighstone and Pixley Hill in Freshwater.

Southern Vectis has confirmed its Route 7 buses are being diverted as a result.

Island Attractions Close

A number of visitor destinations have announced they will remain closed today as a safety precaution.

The National Trust has shut all of its Isle of Wight locations, while Blackgang Chine, Robin Hill, Wildheart Sanctuary and Shanklin Chine have also confirmed closures.

What Does The Weekend Forecast Look Like?

According to IW Met Service, today's strongest winds are expected around midday, before easing slightly during the afternoon and evening.

Temperatures will remain between 10°C and 12°C, with occasional showers and the possibility of some brighter intervals.

Winds should gradually weaken overnight, with clearer spells developing and most places remaining dry.

However, further unsettled weather is expected tomorrow (Saturday).

Rain will spread from the southwest by late morning, becoming particularly heavy at times, with widespread totals of 15–20mm and potentially 25–30mm in some locations.

Winds are also forecast to strengthen again later in the day, potentially reaching 56mph.

Motorists and those using public transport are advised to allow additional journey time and check for service updates before travelling.