London/Dublin: Storm Bert unleashed a powerful mix of snow, rain, and strong winds across the UK and Ireland, causing significant disruptions and a tragic fatality.
In England, the storm claimed the life of a man in his 60s when a tree fell on a car along the A34 highway in the south, according to local police. Transportation was severely impacted, with numerous railway lines, bridges, and roads closed. At Newcastle Airport in northeast England, snow-covered runways temporarily halted flights. Scotland faced similar disruptions, as ScotRail suspended some train services due to adverse weather conditions. The Severn Bridge, a vital link between Wales and England, was also closed because of high winds, the National Highways website confirmed.
In northern parts of the UK, snow blanketed roads, stranding vehicles and creating hazardous driving conditions. Met Office Chief Meteorologist Jason Kelly described Storm Bert as a “multi-hazard event,” warning that snow, rain, and wind would continue to affect the region throughout the weekend.
In Ireland, torrential rain led to widespread flooding along the western coast. The Irish Meteorological Service issued its highest alert, a “status red” rain warning, for Cork and Galway counties starting Friday night. Rising floodwaters in Killybegs, Donegal, threatened parked cars, while impassable roads created chaos in affected areas.
Also Read | UAE Detains Three Suspects in Israeli Rabbi’s Murder Investigation
Electricity provider ESB Networks reported that high winds had caused power outages for approximately 60,000 homes, farms, and businesses, primarily in the west and northwest.
The storm serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities posed by extreme weather events across the British Isles.
Also Read | Emma McKeon Bows Out as Australia’s Most Successful Olympian
