There is a gale blowing outside,

[dothawkes31]

it's really noisy, that's very unusual for July, even for St Swithins Day! It sounds dangerous out there and I've to drive to pick my son up in a bit.

[boxtops]

High winds were forecast, sweeping in from the Atlantic...

[pastafreak]

It's been like that for the last 24 hours down here....OMG-40 more days of this????

[jno]

it's been howling all day here in the deep south, though otherwise mild temperatures and even some sun, plus about three drops of rain. Any idea what this portends for the next 40 days?

[Bravehearted]

Take care watch out for fallen trees....Wot No Rain?!.

[dothawkes31]

I've not looked outside yet but it doesn't sound like it's raining, mind you I wouldn't hear it for that blasted wind!

[boxtops]

Hi jno, just read the Daily Express, let's see if they are right: "forecasters are predicting temperatures of 86F in the south and east next week, with 91.4F at the end of the the month. ....warm continental air will push up from the south. August will be dry and warm with average Sept and dry Oct and Nov" Shall we take bets...?

[jno]

depends - is it Michael Fish they're asking?

[carlton23]

This weather suits me, lets have some thunder and lightning, natures showtime and beats TV.

[dothawkes31]

It's not raining here but those trees are frightening! I've phoned son and he says its the same there, I've tried to sound alarmed and worried about the journey bt he hasn't got an ounce of compassion and said 'just get here for 12.30 ' serves me right for being so soft lol

[jno]

he'll be sorry when a mighty redwood falls on your car and kills you, Dot.

[alexanderd]

dothawkes, just close your eyes you will be ok

[boxtops]

jno - "Positive Weather Solutions senior forecaster Jonathan Powell" - how interesting, is there a separate "Dismal Weather Solutions" for when the forecast is poor?!

[pips1]

Oh my goodness, don't say that!!!

[dothawkes31]

there aren't many mighty redwoods in this part of deepest Lancashire but you never know with my luck! I always remember poor Leslie Crowther was badly hurt when a tree fell on his car. I'm scaring myself now tut

[jno]

ah, they've got form, so that's promising

http://www.guardian.c...k/feedarticle/9086909

[boxtops]

Interesting, well spotted jno - here's hoping!

[jno]

yes, I do hope Dot survives the night, I'd hate her to miss the good weather.

[ELVIS68]

All calm here in deepest Hertfordshire, windows and patio doors still open

[pips1]

It is tipping it down here in Worcs and blowing a gale, my umberella was inside out more than it was up!!!