Storm Bram: What We Can Expect

Batten down the hatches! Storm Bram is rolling in, and it’s coming with a bang.

From midnight tonight, the Isle of Man is set for a soggy, blustery start to Tuesday, and already we’re seeing the early signs of chaos.

The NSC decided enough was enough and closed early this evening (8pm to be exact), while Lloyds Bank has announced its branch will be shut tomoz. No doubt plenty of other closures will follow as Bram arrives in full force.

Oh, and the Steam Packet’s sailings are cancelled too.

It all kicks off with the first of three weather warnings.

At midnight tonight (Tuesday, December 9), the Ronaldsway Met Office sounded a ten-hour amber alert for heavy rain.

We’re talking persistent, intense rainfall expected to soak the island overnight and well into Tuesday morning.

Most areas could see 20-30mm of rain within nine hours, with the higher ground possibly facing 30-45mm.

And between 3am and 6am? That’s when up to 20mm could fall in just three hours, perfect timing to ruin your morning commute.

With the ground already saturated, rivers are likely to respond quickly, meaning localised flooding isn’t out of the question.

Once the rain eases, it’s Bram’s storm force winds and BIG waves turn.

An unusual red warning has been issued for strong waves between 1pm and 4pm, coinciding with the high tide at 2.30pm.

South to south-southwesterly gales are expected to strengthen to severe gale force, which could see major volumes of water and debris sweeping over coastal areas.

Castletown promenades, Shore Road in Rushen, and the northern end of Douglas Promenade are bracing for the worst, while Ramsey and Laxey promenades might see a milder soaking.

As if that wasn’t enough, the whole island is under a yellow warning for severe gales (NOW AMBER), with winds expected to remain at STORM FORCE in the early afternoon to gale force for much of the afternoon.

Authorities warn that this combination of saturated ground and fierce winds could bring down trees, cause surface water issues, and disrupt travel.

Oh, and inner harbours aren’t safe either. While flooding levels are forecast to stay just below yellow warning thresholds, the combination of strong winds, tidal surge, and high tide could still lead to minor flooding.

Conditions will be reassessed after the peak tide, but it’s worth keeping an eye on the water.

So, Manx folk, it’s time to batten down the hatches, and maybe postpone that seaside stroll.

Storm Bram isn’t here for a gentle visit. Let us know if you spot anything we should be reporting on: hello@gef.im.