Tens of thousands of homes across the UK were plunged into darkness early Saturday as Storm Darragh unleashed powerful winds and widespread disruption. The UK’s Met Office issued a rare red warning, its highest alert level, urging residents in Wales and southwest England to remain indoors from 3.00 to 11.00 GMT. The government followed up with an emergency alert to three million people, warning of the storm’s “damaging” impact.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds described the storm as a “challenging situation” and advised residents to adhere to official guidance. Gusts exceeding 90 mph (145 km/h) battered coastal areas, leaving 86,000 homes in England, Scotland, and Wales without power. Flood warnings were issued nationwide as heavy rains compounded the chaos. In Ireland, over 400,000 people lost electricity, according to RTE.
Transport networks suffered significantly. Network Rail Wales suspended train services along the northern coast, while major bridges across Wales and southern England were closed. Flight cancellations and delays were reported at Dublin Airport and the Netherlands’ Schiphol Airport due to the hazardous conditions. Sporting events, including the Merseyside derby, and Christmas markets were postponed amid the disruption.
Here’s what we know about Storm Darragh:
- Red and amber warnings: A red alert covered parts of Wales and southwest England, while an amber warning extended to Scotland’s southwest and Northern Ireland. Gusts reached 93 mph (150 km/h) in Wales and 80 mph in Scotland.
- Power outages: Over 86,000 homes across the UK were left without electricity. In Ireland, 400,000 were affected, and repairs could take days.
- Transport disruptions: Speed restrictions and suspensions were imposed on several rail lines, including Stranraer and Aberdeen routes. Ferry operators, including Stena Line, cancelled crossings between Scotland and Northern Ireland.
- Emergency alerts: The UK government sent its largest-ever emergency alert, using a siren-like tone to warn residents.
This comes just weeks after Storm Bert caused severe flooding in Wales, further highlighting the escalating impact of extreme weather events across the UK and Ireland. According to BBC, Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop urged residents to “plan journeys carefully” and prioritise safety.