Storm Floris update: Rail disruption likely to continue for another day after 90mph winds hit UK
Storm Floris is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to the UK on Monday, with a yellow weather warning already issued for the northern half of the country. Photo credit: Reuters
Travel across the UK remains disrupted after Storm Floris unleashed fierce winds reaching up to 90mph on Monday, leaving thousands of homes without power and rail services in disarray.
The Met Office had issued severe weather warnings, including amber alerts, warning of flying debris that posed a “danger to life.” As of Monday evening, more than 43,000 properties—primarily in the Scottish Highlands and northeast—were left in darkness, according to Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN). Only 9,000 of those homes had been reconnected by 7pm.
Rail services in Scotland were hit especially hard, with ScotRail reporting “extensive damage” to infrastructure, prompting Network Rail to caution that significant disruptions would carry into Tuesday. Wind-battered tracks and debris—including garden furniture and even a gazebo complete with lights—have added to the chaos. Network Rail publicly expressed frustration, urging residents near tracks to secure outdoor items.
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The aftermath of Storm Floris, the sixth named storm of the 2024/25 season, has also forced the cancellation of events including a military parade. While the Edinburgh Fringe Festival continues to monitor conditions, an Oasis concert in the capital remains scheduled.
Weather Warnings and Forecast
Although most weather warnings expired by midnight, a yellow wind alert remained in effect for Orkney until 8am Tuesday, with gusts expected to range from 50 to 70mph before easing.
Looking ahead, the Met Office predicts unsettled conditions throughout the week. Tuesday will bring a mix of sunshine and scattered showers, particularly across northern and central areas. By Wednesday, weather is expected to turn warmer and calmer, though rain and strong winds may return late in the week—especially over Scotland.
Students Hit by Delays
The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) announced that adverse weather had delayed the delivery of exam results to remote communities including Orkney, Shetland, and the Outer Hebrides. Students were advised to contact their schools or colleges for assistance.
Coastal Chaos and Travel Woes
Beaches and coastlines also bore the brunt of Storm Floris. Images from Portstewart Strand in Northern Ireland show RNLI lifeguards battling powerful gusts, while others struggled through sandstorms and beach hazards. A video of a plane struggling to land amid turbulent winds further underscored the widespread impact.
Ferry services were suspended and hundreds of train journeys across northern England and Scotland were cancelled. Flights were also affected in various airports, creating a ripple effect across the UK’s transport system.
As Storm Floris moves northeast and begins to weaken, forecasters caution that unsettled conditions could return midweek. The full extent of damage is still being assessed, and authorities continue to urge caution while traveling, especially in areas still recovering from power outages and fallen trees.
