A relentless storm is unleashing chaos across the UK, triggering over 100 flood alerts and disrupting travel networks. The worst of the conditions are concentrated in the southwest of England, but the impact stretches from Northern Ireland to Scotland.
Authorities are reporting a surge in incidents involving people encountering floodwater. Motorists are being urgently warned against the extreme danger of attempting to drive through flooded roads, even if the water appears shallow.
Devon County Council is emphasizing the unpredictable nature of floodwaters, explaining that hidden depths can make seemingly safe roads treacherous. The sheer volume of rainfall has overwhelmed drainage systems, leaving many routes impassable.
Beyond the immediate flood risk, powerful winds are battering the eastern coast of Northern Ireland, with gusts reaching up to 75mph in coastal areas. These easterly winds are particularly unusual and are expected to cause significant disruption.
A broad yellow warning for rain covers much of southeast England, as well as southwest England, south and central Wales. The saturated ground is exacerbating the situation, increasing the risk of landslides and further flooding.
Rail travel has been severely impacted, with multiple lines closed due to flooding. Services between Par and Newquay in Cornwall, and Castle Cary and Taunton in Somerset are among those suspended. Disruptions are also affecting lines in Wiltshire, Hampshire, and Devon.
In Wales, a fallen tree is blocking the railway at Llanbister Road station, halting services between Swansea and Shrewsbury. Passengers are advised to check with National Rail and Transport for Wales for the latest updates.
The Met Office warns that the initial impact of the storm is focused on the Isles of Scilly, western Cornwall, and southwest Wales, areas still recovering from the previous storm, Goretti. Gusts of 70 to 80mph are possible in these regions.
While the storm is expected to subside by Wednesday, the immediate threat remains substantial. Forecasters emphasize the combination of strong winds and heavy rainfall on already saturated ground presents a dangerous scenario.
Scotland is also experiencing disruption, with flood warnings issued for Aberbothrie and the River Isla at Coupar Angus, alongside 17 flood alerts across Wales. The widespread nature of the alerts underscores the severity of the weather system.
