More than 200 flood alerts were in effect across England, Wales and Scotland overnight on Saturday, as Met Office issued yellow warnings for rain and winds extended across large part of the country into Sunday. Storm Bert has caused widespread devastation across the UK, leading to several fatalities and significant disruption. At least five deaths have been reported in England and Wales since the storm struck. Thousands of homes have been left without power, while flights and train services have been delayed or canceled.
The storm brought intense rainfall and strong winds, with flooding exacerbated by heavy rain and melting snow. Storm Bert has already delivered 80% of November’s typical rainfall. Capel Curig in north Wales recorded 64.4mm of rain within 12 hours on Saturday, with wind gusts of up to 132 km/h were measured in the same area. As of today, more than 140 flood warnings remain in place across England, Wales, and Scotland, with additional rain expected to worsen the situation. The aftermath of Storm Bert continues to be felt, with saturated ground increasing the risk of further flooding.
Heavy rainfall and gale-force winds over the weekend caused widespread disruption, with homes, roads, and rail networks severely affected. The Environment Secretary has warned that further flooding is "sadly likely," with up to 25mm of additional rain forecast in some areas. Although Storm Bert is expected to move towards Scandinavia by Tuesday, showers are still predicted across south-east, south-west and north-west England, as well as Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. In colder areas like north Wales and the Peak District, the rain could turn to snow. As the system exits eastern England, it may bring another surge of strong winds.
England currently has 263 flood alerts and warnings in place, Wales has 22, and Scotland has five. Northern Ireland does not operate a live flood warning system. One severe flood warning remains active in Northamptonshire, indicating a danger to life. A major incident has been declared in the area as emergency services respond to the ongoing crisis. Meanwhile, Scotland continues to face heavy rain, with a Met Office warning remaining active for the region—the only weather warning still in place.