by Joe Jeffrey
Winds of up to 96mph recorded as Storm Imogen brings disruption to parts of the UK
Treacherous weather conditions across the UK show no sign of easing up, as parts of Southern Britain have been hit hard by heavy rain and winds of up to 96mph after Storm Imogen made its unwelcome arrival. The storm is the ninth to hit the country this winter.
More than 5,000 homes are without power in south-west England, south and mid-Wales and the Midlands, with bad weather expected to move eastwards. At time of writing, 60 flood warnings were also in place across England and Wales.
Rail services have been disrupted, and some cross-Channel ferries have been cancelled. Drivers have also been urged to take extra care, with focus remaining on adverse weather on routes including the M4 and M5 motorways.
Gusts in south-west England are expected to reach up to 80mph, with high winds sweeping across across the country, leading to the Met Office to issue an amber “be prepared” warning to those in Wales, south-west England, London and the south-east.
Coastal areas in the west are also on high alert, with predictions that the sea state could reach “phenomenal” – the highest level on the World Meteorological Scale.
Meanwhile, on public transport, South West Trains has reduced the speed of its services between 11am and 3pm, which will see up to 30 minutes added to some journeys between Southampton and Weymouth and Portsmouth to London. Arrive Trains Wales services between Machynlleth and Aberswyth and Pwllheli have been suspended due to flooding, whilst Southern Railway and Great Western Railway have also imposed seed restrictions. Gatwick Airport has also advised flights may be affected.
Gary Webb, of Highways England, said: “We would encourage drivers, especially those driving high-sided vehicles, motorcycles or considering a trip with a caravan, to consider driving conditions before setting off as they could be difficult.
“If you do have to make a journey by road be prepared, plan your journey in advance and check the latest weather conditions along your route.
“Be aware of sudden gusts of wind, and give high-sided vehicles, caravans, and motorbikes plenty of space. In the event of persistent high winds we may need to close bridges to traffic for a period, so please be alert for warnings of closures and follow signed diversion routes.”
Imogen is the ninth named winter storm and comes days after Storm Henry, which brought winds of up to 90mph in places, causing schools to shut and disruption to transport.
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