Storm Benjamin has reached alarming wind speeds of 100mph, causing roads to flood in various parts of the UK.
More than 100,000 households in France are currently without power following the storm, prompting the Met Office to caution about potential power outages and service disruptions as the weather system moves across the British Isles.
The highest wind speed was recorded overnight in the coastal town of Fécamp in France, with the storm bringing heavy rainfall to southern England.
The Met Office has issued four yellow weather warnings for wind and rain across Southeast England and East England. The most extensive warning, focusing on rain, encompasses England and Wales, including areas like York, Cornwall, and Swansea.
Expect flooding, power disruptions, and potential travel issues this afternoon as the storm remnants sweep across the country.
Stay updated with our live blog for the latest developments.
Today, persistent rain will linger across England and Wales, slowly dissipating towards the North Sea. Scattered heavy showers are expected elsewhere, with strong winds likely, potentially reaching severe gale levels along eastern and some western coasts, leading to lower temperatures.
Tonight, rain in the far east will gradually clear, persisting in parts of eastern Scotland. Showers will also occur in the west, with drier conditions and some clear skies elsewhere, as winds gradually ease.
Tomorrow, the east will experience cloudiness with rain outbreaks in northeastern Scotland. Other regions will see variable cloud cover with sunny intervals and occasional heavy showers, mainly in the southwest. Blustery winds will persist, creating a cold sensation.
Strong winds caused a tree to fall in Petersfield, Hampshire, this morning, blocking a major road in the town completely.
The Met Office has adjusted its wind and rain warnings for Norfolk and Suffolk, now set to expire by 4pm today, followed by below-average temperatures post-Storm Benjamin.
Deputy Chief Meteorologist Chris Bulmer stated, “As Storm Benjamin exits the UK towards Denmark tomorrow, cold Arctic air will sweep through the country, resulting in a notably chilly weekend with temperatures dropping below average.
“While many regions will experience dry weather with sunshine, the brisk northerly winds will create a cold feel. Showers are anticipated in the north and west, potentially falling as snow on Scottish mountains.”
A tree obstructing the railway at Tring in Hertfordshire has led to the closure of the line between Milton Keynes Central and Watford Junction.
National Rail indicated that services passing through the area may face cancellations or delays of up to 30 minutes.
Two individuals in Essex found themselves stranded atop their car after it became stuck in 3.5 feet of water this morning, amidst flash floods in the southeast, where intense rainfall has been concentrated.
The Met Office released a new weather forecast map illustrating a secondary band of heavy rain moving across Wales and the West Midlands this afternoon.
Another substantial area of severe weather is forecasted to move towards the North Sea and nearby regions as the day progresses.
Some areas will experience wet and windy conditions this afternoon, especially in eastern England, potentially leading to localized travel disruptions
Shower possibilities exist elsewhere, with drier and sunnier intervals, especially in western Scotland
Chilly conditions are expected due to the breeze pic.com/H61Yv8SX03
France reported over 100,000 households without power this morning post-Storm Benjamin, according to national energy provider Enedis.
British authorities are hopeful to avert a similar scenario, after the Met Office warned of potential power cuts and service losses due to high winds in the warned areas.
Localized flooding incidents occurred in parts of southeast England and the Midlands this morning, triggered by sudden downpours during the storm