Yes, you're right, there is no weather warning for high winds. However, winds are predicted to gust up to 60mph, which is still quite high. Yellow warnings for rain aren't unusual, but you have to consider the rain is falling on very saturated ground, many parts of Kent have flooded in the past few days. Wind isn't the only problem when storms arrive. Landslides due to rainfall and flooded areas were a big problem and 60mph is enough to knock trees onto the line.
I must admit, I was originally surprised to see 12pm as the time to open lines. But when you consider everything, I think it could be justified. Of course, if less disruption occurs and they can open lines before 12pm but decide not to, then I can understand where the criticism comes from.
