Forecasters disagree on the strength of a storm heading toward Germany

A fast-moving storm is forecast to reach the North Sea by Friday after crossing the Atlantic and the English Channel.

Forecasts say winds could reach 160 km/h over the Irish Sea, 120 km/h in the Channel and 100 km/h over the North Sea, though the track and strength remain uncertain.

Western and northern Germany could turn stormy from Friday, with severe conditions possible near the North Sea over the weekend.

A “bomb cyclone” is a storm that strengthens as air pressure falls very quickly, by more than 24 hectopascals in 24 hours.

Forecasters disagree on whether this storm qualifies: some expect bombogenesis, while WDR’s meteorologist says the system approaching North Rhine-Westphalia does not meet that description.

WDR forecasts showers and possible gusts of up to 75 km/h in the region’s uplands, and says Friday’s exact wind speeds are not yet clear.

The forecast may change as the storm develops, so its path and intensity are still being monitored.