An emergency Cobra meeting was called by the Government today to discuss the incoming Storm Eunice after the Met Office issued a rare ‘red warning’ to stay indoors for what could be Britain’s worst storm in 32 years.
Millions of Britons are being warned to put away their winter gear for the next storm. It is expected that the strongest winds will hit South England from tomorrow morning until Monday at 9pm.
Nearly all of England, Wales and the South West have been placed under amber alert by Met Office. A red warning is issued for South West warnings that there may be “flying debris” that could pose a danger to human life.
Due to very strong winds, which could exceed 100 mph and concerns about roofs being blown away from houses, a red alert was posted along Cornwall’s coastline.
According to forecasters, Storm Eunice will cause significant disruption to homes and power lines, and trees could be uprooted or brought down by the wind.
This warning also stated that roads and bridges could close, with cancellations or delays to buses, trains, ferry services, and flights. Power cuts may affect other services, such as cell phone coverage.
The Met Office said large waves and ‘beach material’ could be thrown onto coastal roads, seafronts and homes, and there may be flooding of coastal properties amid a threat of ‘dangerous conditions on beaches and seafronts’.
Sabrina Lee, BBC weather presenter said that the strongest gusts will be found in the coast areas. Tomorrow was not a good day for travel ahead of what may be the South’s worst battering since 1990’s Burns’ Day Storm.
Britain’s worst-ever weather disaster on January 25, 1990 left 47 people dead and caused up to £3billion worth of damage. This was worse than the Great Storm that struck 1987, as it happened during the day. Eunice won’t be able to repeat the same fate.
Eunice will cause blizzards. Up to 8in snow could fall on the North and Scotland’s upland regions, and up to 2 inches in lower-lying areas. Eunice hitting Ireland first will cause some heat to evaporate before reaching the UK. However, if Eunice arrives further south, England will take the brunt. This is why the warning was issued.
London North Eastern Railway warned passengers not to travel tomorrow between London, Leeds, or York. It also advised them that there would be delays, cancellations, and alterations. People in Cornwall were urged by council to not travel except when absolutely necessary, and to take extra precautions.
Tomorrow morning at 7am, the red wind warning goes into effect. These warnings rarely come out: one exception is Storm Arwen’s November 2021 red alert. This storm saw extremely strong winds battering the East of England and eastern Scotland.
Many red warnings were also issued late February/early March 2018 in the aftermath of the so-called Beast from the East, a severe storm that caused widespread snow accumulation and freezing temperatures across large portions of the UK.
The second-highest alert level for wind, Amber Warnings are currently in effect across England. Yellow Weather Warnings for snow and wind, which are the next lowest, are in effect for Scotland and Northern Ireland.
According to the government, Cobra (Cabinet Office Briefing Rooms), an emergency committee that includes Cabinet Office Minister Michael Ellis and other Cabinet Office ministers will convene to discuss Storm Dudley’s and Storm Eunice’s response.
Ministers are being urged by the Liberal Democrats to create an emergency power supply plan in response to any possible power cut. Tim Farron of the Liberal Democrat Community said that the government is not prepared to deal with a severe storm.
“As people all across the country suffer from stormy weather, this time the government must provide assistance. Cobra should agree to an emergency support plan, including food and emergency accommodation as well as electricity generators for people affected by power outages.
Kwasi Kwarteng Energy Secretary said there was a possibility of a power outage. She also added that they are regularly in contact with operators and are mobilizing equipment and emergency teams to help if required.
After Storm Dudley knocked out power to 14,000 UK homes overnight, North Wales saw gusts as high as 81mph and West Yorkshire and South Lanarkshire experienced winds up to 74%.
The stormy weather also caused unseasonably warm temperatures in Hampshire, where 17.9C (64.2F), was recorded yesterday. That’s 20C higher than Shetland which saw -1.8C (28.8F).
Today, Storm Dudley brought a train along the Cumbrian coast from Whitehaven to Carlisle.
A person watches as waves break on Porthleven beach in Cornwall this morning in the wake of Storm Dudley
Tynemouth Longsands beaches are hit with a fierce sandstorm that batters the North East. Beachgoers risk their lives to brave the elements.
Today’s storms bring blizzards to the A9 near Inverness, forcing traffic through the blizzards.
Tynemouth Longsands beaches are hit with a fierce sandstorm that batters the North East. Beachgoers risk their lives to brave the elements.
After Storm Dudley, fallen trees can be seen today on the Little Hay road in Birmingham.
Today’s storms bring blizzards to the A9 near Inverness, forcing traffic through the blizzards.
Traffic in Cornwall was brought to a halt on A30 after a Lorry fell onto it and shed its load.
Yesterday’s rain impact was shown by Environment Agency. These photos were taken in Sheffield 25 minutes apart.
Energy Networks Association stated that ‘almost all houses affected by the power outages caused storm Dudley are now reconnected’. They also added that there were teams in place to help with repairs in the aftermath of Eunice.
This morning, Northern Powergrid had said 1,000 properties still had no lights due to the weather.
A spokesperson for Storm Dudley said that the teams had restored power to around 19,000 affected homes and businesses. They are now working on getting the lights back on to approximately 1,000 more properties.
The Met Office issued several warnings about tomorrow. This includes a rare warning of’red wind’ for South West England.
Around 4,000 were still without power yesterday evening, at 9 p.m. Around 14,000 people were initially affected by the storm, but 10,000 of them had been restored.
Frank Saunders is the Met Office’s chief meteorologist. He stated today that: “After Storm Dudley’s impacts on many people’s Wednesdays, Storm Eunice could bring dangerous gusts. This storm could prove to be the most damaging in the UK over the past few years.
The red warning zone indicates that there is a serious danger to your life. Strong winds can cause damage to buildings and debris. Even though gusts could reach 90mph in some areas along the coastline to the east and west, gusts are likely to be higher inland. Most residents in the Amber Warning Area will see winds gusting between 70-80mph.
National Rail advises travellers that their trains may be delayed or cancelled tomorrow if they plan to travel. This is because many train operators will have their services disrupted.
Katharine, Environment Agency Flood duty Manager, stated that “strong winds could cause coastal flooding to areas of the west coast, southwest, south coast and southern parts of England as well as the river Severn in the early hours Friday morning.” The storm Eunice, which caused high waves and possible storm surge coincided with the beginning of a period characterized by rising tides.
Red weather warnings for wind cover the coasts of Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and the south coasts of Wales
According to The Met Office, the majority of people will get some sunlight this afternoon in anticipation of Storm Eunice.
‘You can check your flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation at https://www.gov.uk/check-flood-risk, call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 or follow @EnvAgency on Twitter for the latest flood updates.’
The RAC advised motorists to not drive in Storm Eunice unless absolutely necessary.
Rod Dennis, spokesperson for RAC Breakdown said that safety on roads would be the most important factor with a rare red warning for extreme wind conditions in effect tomorrow. Storm Eunice can be dangerous for drivers.
It might be more beneficial to take trips now, or wait until the worst storm passes. Unnecessary journeys can put drivers and passengers at risk.
“People should work from home tomorrow. However, we urge them not to make the mistake of driving all the way to the coast in order to photograph the extreme conditions.
Jeremy Phillips from National Highways’ Head of Road Safety said that he encourages drivers to review the weather conditions and other travel information before they set out on their journeys. He also suggested that motorists consider whether a delay is possible until better conditions are available. Plan your trip if you plan to travel. This will allow for more time.
It’s important to note that high winds pose a risk for motorbikes, caravans, and lorries. We advise them to reduce their speed.
Drivers of other vehicles need to be mindful of unexpected gusts of winds that could affect their handling and brakes. Give high-sided vehicles, caravans and motorbikes lots of room. We may have to close roads temporarily due to persistently high winds. Please be aware of warnings about closures, and ensure you follow the diversion routes.
Elizabeth Howard snapped this image of a fallen tree on top of a car in Ealing West London. It was taken during Storm Dudley.
Network Rail engineers assessed extensive overhead damage from Storm Dudley in Scotland overnight
After strong winds tore the exterior bricks from a Salford house overnight, a car parked there was left totally crushed
Ross Easton of Energy Networks Association said that ‘with either a yellow or amber ‘risk to live’ warning currently in force throughout a large portion of the UK tomorrow we are reiterating safety advice.
For free, call 105 if you find fallen power lines or damaged to the electricity grid. Northern Ireland’s number is 03457 643 643.
“If someone or something is threatening their life, dial 911 immediately.
“The energy networks are moving equipment and teams to strategic locations so that they can respond to any emergency. Customers in vulnerable circumstances are being contacted to inform them about the available warnings and what they can do.
Residents in storm-prone areas are encouraged to keep their phones charged, use the phone number 105 for any updates, and have an emergency torch.
Cornwall residents are being advised to use caution and travel only when absolutely necessary. The storm could be just as strong as the one that hit Cornwall in 2014. Forecasters warn it can strengthen.
According to council officials, winds that are strong will coincide with the highest spring tides on the Cornish coast around 6 a.m., causing possible flooding.
According to a spokesperson for the council, “People should stay away from seafronts and beaches due to large wave dangers.” Residents are asked to be attentive to weather forecasts over the coming two days. They are also advised to travel only on Fridays if necessary.
Mid Devon Council will suspend waste collection and recycling tomorrow because of the severe weather conditions.
North Somerset Councillor Mike Bell was the deputy leader of council. He said, “We are urging people not to leave their homes during bad weather.”
Please avoid beaches, promenades and piers, as well as parks and forests. If you get into difficulty, don’t put your life at risk. The highways department is available to assist with flooding, fallen trees and blocked roads. The floodgates on Weston’s seafront will also be closed.
Ceredigion residents were warned of storm Eunice’s dangers.
According to a Ceredigion County Council spokesperson, “Storm Eunice has the potential to become one of the most destructive storms that will affect Ceredigion over the past few years. And we will continue tracking its path for 48 hours,” he said.
People are reminded that winds can cause debris and fallen trees to accumulate on roads. It is important for people not to travel near coastal areas where wind gusts could be strong.
“Currently tides are high and big waves are possible. Beach material will likely be spread onto beaches, roads, and property.
Natural Resources Wales urges people who live near the coast to remain vigilant.
Natural Resources Wales spokesperson Ross Akers said that high winds predicted by Ross Akers could produce a large storm surge and strong waves, which could result in the collapse of flood defenses on the coast.
“We monitor the situation closely but are worried that, if the forecast comes true, we will see major flooding impacts along many of our coastline areas.”
In Derbyshire, a BMW driver lost control and his vehicle crashed onto a stretch of 70mph road. It was thrown into the wind by high winds.
Emergency crews in Salford were summoned to assist cars that sustained damage from gales overnight.
Yesterday’s strong windstorms from Storm Dudley swept through the UK, blowing a tree into the Sheffield road.
As winds of over 80 mph raged across the UK, a Great Western Railway train was stopped at Cardiff by a trampoline.
“Wind speed could cause damage to many places. It is important to be cautious and keep an eye out for flood warnings.
“If you are near, or visiting, a coast area, you should be extra careful and stay away from promenades and coastal paths. Large waves could sweep you off your feet, and you may get swept by the debris.
National Rail reported that hundreds of train companies had been affected by the storm at 7am this morning in England, Wales, Wales and other parts of Scotland including LNER and Transport for Wales.
According to it, due to damage to the overhead wires connecting Bedford and St Albans some lines on the East Midlands Railway or Thameslink are blocked at the moment.
The Met Office has issued yellow warnings for Scotland up to 10 AM today, with the possibility of snow and wintry showers in Scotland overnight.
This is in advance of Storm Eunice. It’s predicted that winds will reach speeds in excess of 95 mph along the coast, but gusts could be as high as 80 mph in the inland, according to weather services.
According to records, the strongest wind gust in Britain was recorded at 173 mph at Cairngorm summit on March 20, 1986.
According to the Met Office, there are potential dangers of falling trees and buildings being damaged or destroyed by this storm.
The Met Office and National Highways have jointly issued severe weather warnings for winds that could affect the East of England and the East Midlands. This alert will be in effect from Friday at 6am to 6pm.
It stated that there was a high chance of vehicles with high sides and vulnerable vehicles like motorbikes and caravans being destroyed in parts of the East of England and South East of England.
Two flood warnings were issued by the Environment Agency in Northern England this morning.
Katharine Smith, flood duty manager, stated that strong winds can cause flooding in parts of west, south, and south of England. She also mentioned the Severn tidal River Severn.
“This is Storm Eunice, which caused high waves and storm surges that coincided with the beginning of a period known as spring tides.
According to her, agency teams are making preparations and erecting barriers.
Green Flag predicts a rise in national breakdowns over the next few days.
Mark Newberry (commercial director, Green Flag) stated that these conditions have prompted us to urge motorists to be careful and perform the necessary safety checks prior to setting out on their journeys.
Storm Dudley shelters sheep at a South Wales bus stop yesterday, ahead of worsening conditions
Following yesterday’s severe storm Dudley in the UK, Derbyshire emergency personnel pick up an automobile that has been severely damaged.
As Storm Dudley blows gusts over 80mph, a swimmer fights against the fierce waves of Plymouth Hoe, Devon.
“It is especially important to be prepared for the extreme wind speed and snow potential in certain areas.
After Storm Dudley, which disrupted travel across Scotland, railway services in Scotland are back to their normal operations.
ScotRail services had to be shut down at 4pm yesterday because of Met Office amber wind warnings. However, some services started running this morning following safety checks.
The Met Office reported that Storm Dudley struck Scotland, with strong winds reaching Scotland. Drumalbin, South Lanarkshire recorded a wind gust of 74 mph.
Network Rail Scotland claimed that over 1,500 miles have been inspected by its engineers in the past ten hour and that except for three signalling difficulties, Scotland’s Railway’s Railway’s is now ‘open for business.
David Simpson (ScotRail Service Delivery Director) stated that “All railway routes throughout Scotland are now open, with services returning back to normal after the severe weather of Storm Dudley.”
“Network Rail engineers worked hard to repair the rail infrastructure and inspect 1,500 miles worth of railroad.
“Preparations for Storm Eunice are underway and teams will work around the clock in order to respond quickly to any weather-related issues.
“We request customers planning to travel that they keep an eye on the website, mobile app and social media feeds to receive live updates.”
Tomorrow’s storm Eunice will hit Scotland, and bring heavy snowfall and strong winds to certain parts.
The Met Office issued a yellow warning that covers central Scotland, Tayside and Fife as well, Strathclyde and south west Scotland.
Today was also a rough day for ferry passengers. Caledonian MacBrayne tweets that many ferry services are at risk of being cancelled or disrupted on short notice. Robbie Drummond, managing director of the company said that there had been an improvement in Thursday’s picture.
BBC Radio Scotland’s Good Morning Scotland program interviewed him. He said: “Yesterday, we ran 214 sails. This was 54% of our schedule. While we are working to improve that, it is clear that the vast majority of routes can be disrupted.
He stated that he hoped to complete as many sailings as possible today, prior to the bad weather on Friday.
John Swinney, Scotland’s deputy first minister, warned that the next few days would be “very difficult” due to Storm Dudley on Friday and Storm Eunice.
According to him, “We anticipate another week of disruption with storms Dudley & Eunice set for strong winds in Scotland. High winds could cause damage to roads and bridges as well as disruption to electricity supplies.
“We encourage everyone to prepare their travels ahead, be cautious on the roads, and adhere to the best travel advice.
Tomorrow’s Met Office Yellow Alert warns of possible travel delays, including stranded passengers and vehicles, as well as delayed and cancelled train and air travel. There is also a possibility that rural areas could be cut off temporarily.
Forecasters stated that there was a chance of some power disruptions and that mobile phone coverage could be disrupted.