A woman has tragically lost her life after being struck by a falling tree in Wiltshire, as severe winds from the remnants of Storm Kathleen continue to lash parts of the United Kingdom.
The fatal incident occurred on the A338 road near the historic market town of Marlborough. Emergency services, including police, paramedics, and an air ambulance, rushed to the scene following reports of the accident on Sunday afternoon.
Despite the best efforts of medical teams, the woman was pronounced dead at the location. Wiltshire Police have confirmed they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragic event and have notified her next of kin.
The devastating accident happened as the Met Office issued an extended yellow weather warning for strong winds across vast swathes of England and Wales. Gusts reaching up to 70mph have been reported in some coastal areas, with significant inland gusts causing travel disruption and dangerous conditions.
A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police stated: "We were called to the A338 at approximately 3:15pm yesterday following reports a woman had been seriously injured after a tree fell onto the road. Sadly, despite the best efforts of all emergency services involved, she died at the scene. Our thoughts are with her family at this difficult time."
The incident has prompted urgent safety warnings from authorities, urging the public to exercise extreme caution when travelling in affected areas. Motorists are advised to avoid unnecessary journeys, especially in regions with numerous trees lining roadways.
This tragic event highlights the deadly potential of severe weather systems affecting the UK. Storm Kathleen, which initially brought disruption to Ireland and western parts of Britain, continues to pose significant risks as it moves across the country.
Local authorities across Wiltshire and neighbouring counties are conducting emergency assessments of trees and structures that might be vulnerable to collapse in the persistent high winds.
