Locations Affected: United Kingdom
Heavy rainfall, snow, and strong winds from Storm Bert caused widespread disruption and flooding across the United Kingdom over the weekend (23 and 24 November). The storm, which made landfall on 22 November, delivered 80 percent of November’s average rainfall and resulted in at least five casualties. Over 200 flood warnings were in effect across the United Kingdom on 24 November.
Storm Season in the UK
The storm season in the UK begins in September and continues until August of the following year. Storm Bert is the second named storm of the season.
Disruptions due to the Storm
- Rhondda Cynon Taf Council in Wales experienced severe flooding after the River Taff overflowed in Pontypridd on 23 November. River levels dropped later as the rainfall subsided, but residents were urged to remain cautious.
- Coastal areas recorded maximum wind speeds of 75 mph, while inland regions saw speeds of up to 65 mph.
- More than 300 flights were canceled across the UK due to the storm. Ferry operator Det Forenede Dampskibs-Selskab (DFDS – The United Steamship Company) has suspended services on some routes until 25 November. Delays and cancellations were also reported for several rail operations.
- Flooding led to the closure of various roads, including the M84 Severn Bridge in Gloucestershire, the A5 in Northamptonshire, and the M32 in Bristol. Restrictions were also imposed on high-sided and vulnerable vehicles on the A66 in North Yorkshire and Cumbria.
- The storm caused power disruptions, with outages reported nationwide throughout 24 November. Over 1,500 properties remained without power as of 25 November, particularly in South Wales, Birmingham, the South West, Stoke-on-Trent, and Cheltenham.
Weather Forecast and Persisting Impacts
Storm Bert is forecast to clear on 26 November but is likely to continue impacting weather in the UK, with a risk of rainfall and wind across the south until 27 November. Currently, 150 flood warnings are in place, including a severe flood warning in Northamptonshire (indicating danger to life and significant disruption). Travel restrictions are expected to persist through the week due to flooding, snow, and strong winds. Railway disruptions continue, with routes linking London to the west of England and Wales being the most affected. Network Rail has advised commuters to avoid routes between Penzance to London Paddington Newport and check travel conditions before traveling. Damage to power lines may persist until damaged power lines are repaired, leading to ongoing power outages. Businesses are advised to stay updated on weather warnings issued by the Met Office via their official website: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/ to prepare contingency plans accordingly.
