Storm Isha has led to widespread warnings across Britain, with severe wind and potential travel disruptions expected through Monday. Northern Ireland, Scotland, and northern England were under a tornado watch, which expired late on Sunday.
The Met Office issued two amber wind alerts and a red warning for parts of northern Scotland, predicting gusts of up to 99 mph in Northumberland and 90 mph in north Wales.
Emergency services in Belfast reported an injury caused by falling debris when scaffolding was dislodged. The Met Office advised residents to stay updated on weather conditions due to risks of power outages, flying debris, and dangerous coastal conditions with high waves.
Widespread wind warnings and travel disruptions across the UK as Storm Isha intensifies.Forecaster Marco Petagna noted the possibility of isolated tornadoes, though these are typically short-lived and localized. The storm’s impact led to significant disruptions: ScotRail suspended services, Network Rail halted all train operations, and air traffic control imposed restrictions, causing flight cancellations and diversions.
Notably, a TUI flight from Sharm El Sheikh to Glasgow was rerouted to Manchester due to the storm.
Flood warnings are in effect, with 26 in England and 27 in Scotland. National Highways issued severe weather alerts across several regions, cautioning motorists, especially those with vulnerable vehicles like caravans and motorbikes.
The storm is expected to continue into Monday morning, with strong winds shifting to the southeast and potentially gusting at 70-80 mph.
Looking ahead, the Met Office predicts the winds will ease on Monday, with calmer conditions expected overnight.
However, further wet and windy weather is anticipated on Tuesday, with the north-west facing the most severe conditions. By mid-week, weather conditions should improve in the south, though the northwest may still experience unsettled weather.