Storm Ashley wreaks havoc on UK transport networks as the country remains on high alert due to flood warnings. The first named storm of the season has brought strong winds and heavy rainfall, leading to widespread disruption.
In airports, dozens of flights have been cancelled at Belfast City Airport and Dublin Airport as gusts of up to 80mph hit the region. Flights to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen have also been affected, causing chaos for travellers. Meanwhile, road travel has been severely impacted, with Police Scotland urging motorists to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary journeys due to the expected disruption.
Ferry services have also been affected, with CalMac cancelling most sailings along the west coast of Scotland. This has left several islands, including Arran, Bute, Lewis and Harris, cut off from the mainland due to adverse sea conditions caused by the storm.
In Worcester, parts of the city have been submerged under floodwaters after the River Severn burst its banks. The Met Office has issued warnings of potential injuries and threats to life as a result of the severe weather conditions.
Scotland and Northern Ireland, along with parts of north-west England and Wales, are under a yellow warning for wind, while an amber warning has been issued for the north-west of Scotland. These warnings highlight the likelihood of large waves and dangerous coastal conditions.
Further south, the Met Office has issued a yellow warning for the south-west of England and South Wales, with potential disruptions to travel, flooding and power outages. The Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales have issued multiple flood warnings and alerts across the regions at risk.
Met Office meteorologists have highlighted the continuation of strong winds and severe gales, particularly in the North West, throughout Sunday. The stormy weather is expected to ease on Monday, with rain moving towards the South East while blustery conditions persist in the north for the remainder of the week.
As the UK battles the impacts of Storm Ashley, authorities are urging residents to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety in the face of the extreme weather conditions.