Storm Herminia Brings Severe Flooding and Travel Disruption to the UK
Heavy rainfall and strong winds from Storm Herminia cause widespread flooding, travel delays, and evacuations across southern England.
Storm Herminia has caused widespread flooding and significant travel disruptions across the UK, particularly in southern England, just days after Storm Eowyn brought adverse weather to the region.
Authorities in Somerset have declared a major incident after heavy rainfall submerged homes and roads, with precautionary evacuations underway in the worst-hit areas, including Chard and Ilminster.
According to a Somerset council spokesperson, further rainfall is expected, compounding the damage caused by intense weekend storms.
The Environment Agency has issued thirty-seven flood warnings for areas where flooding is expected and one hundred seventy-one alerts for regions where flooding is possible.
A yellow weather warning for rain remains in effect until 9 p.m. on Tuesday, January 28.
Ben Lukey, a flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, stated that impacts are likely across southern England on Monday and Tuesday, with the possibility of continued disruption through Wednesday and Thursday.
The storm has heavily impacted travel, with Heathrow Airport experiencing significant delays and flight cancellations.
Additionally, a landslip between Three Bridges and Gatwick Airport in Sussex has blocked some northbound train lines, further complicating travel across the region.
The UK has faced an extended period of storms, including Ashley, Bert, Connall, and Darragh, between October and December.
Meteorologists at the Met Office attribute the prevalence of severe weather to the jet stream, a high-altitude column of air that influences wind and pressure patterns, placing the UK in the path of frequent low-pressure systems that bring unsettled weather conditions.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation and urge residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and follow safety guidance.