As forecast, a vigorous area of low pressure has developed close to the UK bringing rain and some very unsettled conditions to many parts. Tied in with the depression are some very strong winds. At the time of writing this article, the winds across Northern Ireland were already in excess of 60 mph in a few places.

Winds have been much stronger though, across the Atlantic in parts of North America. Along an active weather front, stretching from the Great Lakes through the Northern Plains, a line of intense thunderstorms developed during Monday. From these sprouted a number of tornadoes, hitting parts of Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa, and Minnesota. Large hail was reported quite widely in the affected areas, but thankfully there were few reports of any major damage.

It wasn't to stay that way. By Tuesday, the storms had pushed east into Illinois and Indianapolis. Though the day, as temperatures rose, they gained strength and cut a huge swathe of destruction through theses states.

Around 15,000 people were left without power, and at least 4 people are believed to have lost their life. The worst affected area appears to be the town of Utica, where numerous buildings were destroyed or damaged.

There is nothing unusual in seeing tornadoes across North America at this time of year, with the tornado season usually running from March to November. However, this will be of little comfort to those affected by these latest storms.

Storms have also been a problem in Tajikistan, which lies to the north of Afghanistan. Heavy rain, strong winds, and possible tornadoes have hit virtually all regions of the country. Homes have been destroyed. Further stormy conditions are pounding the area today, and will continue tomorrow before easing towards the weekend.

Conversely, storms are beginning to brew in the Sea of Japan, off the south-east coast of Russia. Many ships in the area have had to take shelter as waves are forecast to reach 5 metres (16 feet) in height, and winds peak at around 50-60 mph - conditions very similar to those that have seen some ferry services cancelled across the Irish Sea today.

Weather News from the last five days:
20/04/2004
19/04/2004
18/04/2004
17/04/2004
16/04/2004

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