A STORM passing across Southern England has produced remarkably low, but not unexpected barometer readings.
Meteorologists at the University of Reading, recorded the second lowest reading in the area for more than 200 years.
Just before 7am, on Thursday morning in Reading the barometer reading was 956.0 hPa.
Only one recording has been lower during the last two centuries.
In 1989, on February 25, the Reading barometer fell to 952.1hPa.
And in 1821, on Christmas Day, it was lower still, with a reading of 946 hPa in London.
Dr Stephen Burt, Visiting Fellow within the Department of Meteorology, at the University of Reading said: “We are very close to the centre of the storm’s depression, and as such have been spared the very strong winds on its southern flanks.”
Winds have been high in other areas affected by the storm.
At 6am Jersey Airport reported an average wind speed of 49 knots, with gusts to 81 knots, while in Brittany gusts have exceeded 100 knots.
For information about the university’s meteorology department, visit: www.reading.ac.uk/meteorology
