Storm Ingrid's Unrelenting Assault on the UK Continues
The United Kingdom remains under siege from Storm Ingrid, with the Met Office confirming that heavy rain and high winds are set to persist well into the coming week. This follows a weekend of significant disruption, particularly in the South West, where the storm has already wreaked havoc, including washing away part of a historic Victorian pier in Devon.
Widespread Weather Warnings and Flooding Risks
Yellow weather warnings for heavy rain remain in force across extensive areas, including parts of Northern Ireland, Scotland, and south-west England and Wales. Specifically, a warning covering Somerset, Devon, Cornwall, and much of south Wales is active until 10pm on Saturday, with separate alerts in Northern Ireland and Scotland extending until 9am on Sunday.
The Met Office forecasts 20-40mm of rainfall across most of the South West, with some exposed locations potentially receiving up to 50mm. This substantial precipitation heightens the risk of flooding in regions already saturated by recent downpours.
Met Office Insights and Weekly Forecast
Met Office meteorologist Tom Morgan provided a detailed outlook, stating, "It's been a contrasting picture depending on where you live, but if you haven't seen rain so far this weekend, the likelihood is that you will see some tonight or through Sunday." He attributed the unsettled conditions to a strong jet stream powering across the north Atlantic, fueled by significant temperature contrasts over North America.
Mr Morgan warned that high winds could cause travel disruption and flooding throughout the week ahead. Tuesday is anticipated to be particularly blustery and wet, with further rainfall warnings likely. Additionally, there is a small chance of disruptive snow, mainly across the higher ground of northern England and Scotland on Tuesday, which could pose problems for travel on highland routes.
Local Impact and Damage Reports
Storm Ingrid, named by the Portuguese national weather service IPMA, caused chaos on Saturday with powerful waves battering parts of the South West. In the Devon coastal town of Teignmouth, the force of the waves led to the collapse of part of its Victorian pier.
Teignmouth's mayor, Cate Williams, described the scene to the Press Association, noting unusually high winds and strong waves that damaged benches, flower beds, paving stones near the seafront, and the historic pier. She expressed sadness, saying, "Ingrid really gave the pier a battering... it's such a focal point of our town." Ms Williams added that the pier had endured previous storms and wars but had become vulnerable due to age and structural wear.
Flood Warnings and Travel Disruption
The Environment Agency has issued 13 flood warnings across south-west England, indicating that flooding is expected, along with 135 flood alerts signalling possible flooding in many parts of the country. These remained in place as of 5pm on Saturday.
Major disruption to railway services in south-west England is expected to last all day on Saturday, according to National Rail, with passengers facing cancellations and delays. This travel chaos underscores the broader impact of the storm on daily life and infrastructure.
As Storm Ingrid continues to batter the UK, residents are urged to stay informed through official weather updates and prepare for ongoing adverse conditions, including potential flooding and travel issues. The Met Office's warnings highlight the need for caution, especially in vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas.
