Storm Darragh is unleashing its fury on the UK, with 80mph winds and widespread flooding triggering Red Alerts in many areas. Authorities are urging residents to prepare for the worst, as potentially life-threatening conditions are expected.
80mph Winds and Catastrophic Floods: Red Warnings Issued for UK as Storm Darragh Strikes
By Arezki AMIRI
Published on 6 December 2024 12:41
North-west England is grappling with widespread flooding, which has caused significant disruption. Red flood warnings have been issued for parts of Lancashire and Cheshire, with further alerts in place as Storm Darragh is expected to intensify the adverse weather conditions over the coming days.
Red Flood Warnings Issued Across Lancashire and Cheshire
The Environment Agency has issued seven red flood warnings across Lancashire and Cheshire, highlighting the risk to life posed by the severe flooding. The warnings, which signal a significant danger, apply to areas where rainfall has been particularly heavy. Among the regions most affected are Ramsbottom and Rossendale in Lancashire, and areas around Poynton Brook in Cheshire, particularly near Stockport. Authorities are urging residents to take immediate precautions as the floodwaters continue to rise.
Main Areas Affected:
- Lancashire: Ramsbottom and Rossendale near the River Irwell are under red flood warnings.
- Cheshire: Areas around Poynton Brook, especially near Stockport, are experiencing severe flooding.
Storm Darragh Set to Exacerbate the Situation
The arrival of Storm Darragh is expected to worsen the situation. The Met Office has issued warnings for winds of up to 80mph (128.75 km/h) and additional rainfall, which are forecast to further strain the already swollen rivers. In its latest forecast, the Met Office described the storm as a “potential danger to life”, urging residents to take shelter and avoid unnecessary travel.
In the words of the Met Office: “The combination of heavy rainfall and very strong winds from Storm Darragh will significantly increase the risk of flooding, especially in areas already affected.”
With the storm approaching, residents are being warned of potential further damage to infrastructure and property, with the storm’s full impact expected to unfold over the weekend.
Widespread Travel Disruptions
The flooding, along with issues caused by Storm Darragh, has led to considerable travel disruptions. Several rail services, including key routes between Manchester, Bolton, Wigan, and Preston, have been delayed or cancelled due to flooding and signalling problems. Northern Rail has issued a statement advising passengers to check their routes before travelling, as conditions are expected to worsen throughout the day.
Northern Rail confirmed: “Due to severe flooding and signalling problems, there are significant delays on services between Manchester, Bolton, Wigan, and Preston. We advise passengers to check before they travel.”
Moreover, numerous roads have been closed due to flood damage, particularly in areas such as Blackburn, Darwen, and Burnley. Merseyside has also been hit hard, with key routes like Queens Drive in Liverpool affected by floodwaters.
Affected Travel Routes:
- National Rail: Disruptions on services between Manchester, Bolton, and Preston.
- Merseyside: Queens Drive in Liverpool closed due to flooding.
Local Authorities Urge Caution
Local authorities have been proactive in issuing warnings to the public, urging motorists to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. Lancashire Police has particularly stressed the hazardous conditions on local roads, with widespread closures and reports of dangerous driving conditions.
In a statement, Lancashire Police warned: “We advise that you avoid all non-essential travel. The roads are hazardous, and with further rainfall expected, conditions will only deteriorate. Please stay safe.”
The extreme weather has also caused damage to public services. Two schools in Pendle, namely Pendle View Primary School and St John Fisher's Roman Catholic High School, have had to close due to burst water pipes caused by the deluge.
With strong and damaging winds from #StormDarragh forecast, there are some simple things you can do to prepare your home, garden or business for the weather, from checking your fences to securing any outdoor furniture or Christmas decorations. #WeatherReady
Learn more:… pic.twitter.com/TQG6qEg7hE
— Met Office (@metoffice) December 6, 2024
Impact on Everton Fc’s New Stadium
The severe weather has also impacted construction projects in the region. Everton FC’s new stadium at Bramley Moore Dock in Liverpool has been affected by flooding, with reports of water flowing through part of the structure. The club confirmed that the stadium's drainage system is still under construction, but repairs are already underway.
An Everton FC spokesperson stated: “The drainage system at the new stadium is still being installed, and we expect it to be fully operational in the coming weeks.”
Everton’s new stadium is getting absolutely flooded!😳😬🤯 pic.twitter.com/ulcm8pnzav
— The 44 ⚽️ (@The_Forty_Four) December 5, 2024
Summary of the affected areas
Here’s a breakdown of the most affected areas and the ongoing impact:
- Lancashire: Red flood warnings for Ramsbottom and Rossendale.
- Cheshire: Flood warnings in place for Poynton Brook, near Stockport.
- Merseyside: Queens Drive in Liverpool closed due to flooding.
- Pendle: School closures due to burst pipes at Pendle View Primary and St John Fisher's RC High School.
Preparing for Future Storms
The ongoing storms highlight the increasing frequency and intensity of severe weather events across the UK. With the risks of flooding and severe storms growing due to the effects of climate change, local authorities are urging communities to remain vigilant and prepared for future disruptions.
As the region continues to battle the aftermath of Storm Darragh, the message remains clear: be prepared, stay informed, and take necessary precautions to stay safe.