Storm Bert Batters Britain: Warnings, Flooding and Transport Disruption

Storm Bert moved across Great Britain over the past 24 hours, delivering a swath of high winds and heavy rain that triggered amber and yellow Met Office warnings for coastal and exposed areas. Local councils reported significant surface-water flooding in low-lying towns and isolated overnight power outages where fallen trees and debris damaged lines. Coastal communities were advised to expect wave overtopping and erosion at known hotspots. Transport networks saw widespread disruption: regional rail services experienced cancellations and speed restrictions due to debris on lines, while several ferry crossings were suspended and some domestic flights delayed. Highways authorities implemented temporary closures on vulnerable coastal routes and issued travel advisories urging drivers to avoid non-essential journeys, especially during the storm’s peak. Emergency services focused on rapid clearance of hazards and welfare checks for at-risk residents. Emergency management teams across devolved administrations activated contingency plans and opened rest centres where needed. Utility companies deployed repair crews and prioritised restoring power to critical sites such as hospitals and care homes. Local authorities also coordinated sandbag distribution and monitored sea defences following reports of localized overtopping; early assessments suggest damage in some coastal promenades and low-lying infrastructure. Forecasters say Storm Bert is beginning to move away eastwards, with conditions expected to ease through the day, though residual strong gusts and patchy flooding risks could persist in northern and eastern areas. Climate experts note that while individual storms have natural variability, the increasing frequency of intense Atlantic storms places additional strain on infrastructure and preparedness plans. Authorities urged residents to follow Met Office updates and local council guidance as recovery and clean-up efforts continue.