Storm Darragh brought strong winds and heavy rain to western UK areas. Tens of thousands remain without electricity.
The worst-hit areas include south Wales, western England, and Northern Ireland. Many train services and flights have been canceled.
A rare Met Office red warning was issued from 03:00 to 11:00 GMT for southern and western Wales. Three million people received a government emergency alert on Friday evening, urging them to prepare for potential power cuts.
The alert advised gathering essential items like torches, batteries, and mobile phone power packs. The system used a loud siren-like sound lasting 10 seconds when sent. Authorities warned people to avoid being outside in high winds.
Power Cuts and Transport Disruptions
Wind gusts of 93mph were recorded in Capel Curig, north Wales. Aberdaron on the Llyn Peninsula saw gusts of 92mph.
Between 70-85mph winds are expected across much of the west of the UK throughout today. Wales has over 48,000 properties without power, and Northern Ireland reports 46,000 premises affected.
Bristol Airport warned passengers about ongoing disruptions and advised travelers to check with airlines. Cardiff Airport has canceled flights during the red warning period.
All trains in Cardiff’s western areas are suspended due to fallen trees blocking the routes. The M4 Prince of Wales Bridge and the M48 Severn Bridge are both closed.
Events and Flood Alerts
Cardiff’s football and rugby matches for Saturday have been canceled, including Cardiff City’s match against Watford. London’s Royal Parks will shut for the day, including the Winter Wonderland attraction in Hyde Park.
Aintree and Chepstow horse races are abandoned due to severe weather. Everton and Liverpool’s Premier League derby at Goodison Park is postponed—the first top-flight derby to be canceled this season.
Christmas events have been canceled across Northern Ireland. Belfast’s Christmas market will remain closed on Saturday, while other festive events were canceled at Antrim Castle Gardens.
Heavy rain and 120 flood alerts are expected across England this weekend. Wales has 55 active flood alerts due to already saturated ground from recent storms.
Amber weather warnings remain active across Northern Ireland, Wales, and western England until Saturday morning. Storm Darragh is the fourth named storm this season, following Bert and Conall.