Storm Babet LIVE: Third victim confirmed, Tui plane skids off runway at Leeds Bradford Airport and Met Office issues new 24-hour red weather warning for parts of Scotland amid major flooding
- Met Office red alert in Scotland extended to tomorrow
- Flooding closes rail lines amid 'do not travel' warnings
- Man dies after van is crushed by fallen tree near Forfar
- Body of woman, 57, recovered from river in Angus
- Man in 60s dies in Shropshire after getting caught in flood
- Tui flight from Corfu came off runway at Leeds Bradford
By Mark Duell and Jon Brady
Published: | Updated:
This live blog has now closed.
The blog has now closed.
Suffolk man uses a homemade paddle boat to rescue elderly neighbours trapped in flooded homes after Storm Babet
Suffolk declared a major incident as Storm Babet caused 'major flooding' across the county.
The rural village of Debenham was cut off by flooding, residents said, while tractors were being used to rescue people caught in the flood water.
Around 50 people were sheltering in the local leisure centre there and sleeping on crash mats, staff said.
In one case, local man Simon O'Brien used a homemade paddle boat which he built for his grandchildren to rescue elderly residents trapped in their homes by flood water.
His partner Mary Scott said: 'It's been sitting in the garden all summer waiting for an opportunity to launch.
'His family have teased him mercilessly about its 'seaworthiness' (but) it floats and came in very useful.'
'Chaos' and 'atrocious' queues for rail commuters at King's Cross station
Passengers have described 'chaos' and 'atrocious' queues at King's Cross station in London as Storm Babet brought rail travel to a standstill for thousands.
Many trains were called off or suffred heavy delays due to the extreme weather, while LNER - operates routes along much of the affected eastern areas - told customers not to travel.
All trains travelling north of Edinburgh have been cancelled entirely. Trains in some of the affected areas in England - King's Lynn, Cambridge and Peterborough - have still been running.
Ireland suffers under heavy rainfall and flooding from Storm Babet
Ireland has buckled under heavy rainfall and flooding from Storm Babet, with weather warnings to carry on into the weekend.
Forecaster Met Eireann issued a status orange rain warning for counties Dublin and Wicklow until 8am on Saturday.
A yellow rain warning for counties Meath and Louth was to lift at midnight on Friday.
Another yellow rain warning from the UK Met Office was issued for Northern Ireland earlier in the day.
Irish Rail warned passengers of weather-related delays to some services on Friday evening while there were reports of spot flooding on roads causing disruption in parts of Dublin.
Earlier, Ireland's Minister for Finance said a proposal was being worked on to increase the level of support that will be offered to those affected by this week's flooding in Co Cork.
Michael McGrath said money will be available through a scheme to be administered by the Red Cross 'from next week'.
This currently offers an initial 5,000 euro and further support of up to 20,000 euro based on the scale of damage.
Mr McGrath said many businesses in Midleton in Co Cork had their 'destroyed' Christmas stock out on the street.
Pictures below show the damage to Midleton in Cork.
Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf pays tribute to victims of Storm Babet
First Minister Humza Yousaf paid tribute to two people who died during Storm Babet - as Police Scotland said flooding was 'the most difficult conditions' some communities had ever faced.
Mr Yousaf said: 'Storm Babet has now, tragically, claimed lives, and my deepest condolences go out to the families of those who have lost loved ones. Unfortunately, we have not seen the last of this storm.
'Around half the average monthly rainfall for October is expected to fall through tonight and tomorrow in areas already severely affected by exceptional levels of rainfall.
'It was always expected that the impacts of the storm would continue even once the most severe aspects of the storm itself had subsided, but a new Red Weather alert makes the ongoing severity of this situation clear. '
Assistant Chief Constable of Police Scotland Stuart Houston said: 'With the red warning extended until midnight Saturday, this remains a dangerous situation which poses a threat to life.
'Communities in Tayside are dealing with some of the most difficult conditions they have faced, with evacuations continuing of those affected by flooding.'
Storm Babet left 55,000 customers without power in England
Storm Babet left 55,000 customers without power in England as it 'battered' the country, the Energy Networks Association said.
Ross Easton, director of external affairs at ENA, said that around 45,000 customers had already been reconnected but that 10,000 were still without power on Friday.
He told the PA news agency: 'Around 10,000 customers are without power in England, with the storm continuing to batter parts of the country. Around 45,000 customers have been reconnected already.
'The energy network operators have been contacting customers on the priority services register since before the storm began, checking in on them and making them aware of potential disruption.
'Hundreds of field engineers, control room and customer service staff have been deployed to support and reconnect people as quickly as possible, as soon as it is safe to do so.'
Tui apologises to passengers after plane skidded on Leeds Bradford Airport runway during Storm Babet
Travel company Tui has apologised to passengers whose flights were disrupted after one of its passenger planes slid off the runway upon landing at Leeds Bradford Airport during Storm Babet.
A Tui UK&I spokesperson: 'We would like to apologise to all those impacted by the closure of Leeds Bradford Airport on Friday 20th October following an incident that took place shortly after landing on TOM3551 from Corfu.
'The safety of our customers and crew is our number one priority and we can confirm there were no reported injuries, with all passengers disembarking the aircraft via the steps.
'All bags have now been removed from the aeroplane and our teams are on hand to support customers with their onward journey, and we will continue to offer any support as required.
'Tui customers due to depart on their holiday today will now be taken to Manchester Airport, where an aircraft is ready to take them on holiday as planned. Customers due to travel tomorrow will be contacted directly, with flights still planned to take place.
'Tui Airways is now fully assisting the AAIB with their investigation.'
Over 50 people cut off by flooding in Suffolk village seek shelter in local leisure centre
Dozens of people cut off by flooding in the village of Debenham, Suffolk are sheltering in the local leisure centre, staff said.
Ness Rodgers, events coordinator at Debenham Leisure Centre, said: 'We have about 50 people here but we are expecting more.
'Nobody can get in or out of the village. Tractors are picking people up who are stuck on the edge of the village.
'There are a couple of people here whose houses are flooded so they can't get in.
'We've got lots of crash mats which we've laid out. We're trying to make people as comfortable and as calm as possible.
'We have one girl who's hysterical because she just wants to go home.'
How passengers knew 'this is not going to stop' when TUI plane skidded the runway at Leeds Bradford Airport in Storm Babet chaos
Passengers on the Tui flight which skidded off the runway at Leeds Bradford aiport today in Storm Babet chaos said they knew the plane 'is not going to stop'.
Flight TOM3551, which departed from Corfu just after 12.30pm local time (10.30am BST), was attempting to land at the airport in strong winds when the Boeing 737-800 slipped off the tarmac and was left stranded on the grass.
Homes in Lincolnshire street devastated by floodwater
Residents on a city street have been bailing water out of their homes for hours on end as Storm Babet wreaked havoc.
A row of houses on Brant Road in Lincoln were devastated by flooding caused by heavy rainfall which poured down throughout the day.
People across the county have faced significant disruption due to the storm which closed down businesses, schools and even forced some to evacuate their own homes. Brant Road resident Ken Bowen, a plasterer, has lived on the street for 38 years and says it's the worst that it has flooded since 2003.
Calling on local authorities to communicate better, he said: "In the 21st Century, what infrastructure is in place to help all these residents? It's not good enough. The fire brigade have been down to help us who very kindly pumped out thousands of litres if water.
Massive flooding in parts of Nottinghamshire
Massive flooding was reported this afternoon in Hucknall, Nottinghamshire, with cars almost fully submerged underwater.
Nottinghamshire County Council told followers on X that there were flood warnings across the county throughout today and tomorrow as Storm Babet continues to batter the UK.
Denmark and Germany also battles floods as Storm Babet hits northern Europe
Gale-force winds and floods have struck several countries in northern Europe with heavy rainfall today as Storm Babet wreaks havoc across the region.
The winds are expected to hit hardest in the eastern part of Denmark's Jutland peninsula and the Danish islands in the Baltic Sea.
But the northern part of the British Isles, southern Sweden and Norway, and northern Germany are also in the path of the storm.
Images below show severe flooding in Flensburg in northern Germany, close to the Danish border.
RSPCA issues flooding advice as Storm Babet batters UK
The RSPCA is urging animal owners to follow urgent advice to keep pets, livestock and wildlife safe during Storm Babet.
RSPCA water rescue teams are monitoring the Derbyshire area where residents have been warned to prepare for floods and also Greater Manchester.
RSPCA inspectorate commissioner Dermot Murphy said: 'It’s really important we help our animal friends get through this spell of bad weather, which is leading to widespread flooding. We have lots of helpful advice and tips available for people to make sure their pets and local wildlife are kept safe.
'In areas affected by flooding owners should be looking to bring small animals inside and move them upstairs, while livestock should be taken up to higher ground with enough emergency supplies for their needs. If householders do have to leave animals behind when they evacuate properties then they should keep them inside an upstairs room with plenty of food and water.
'Wild animals can also struggle in stormy weather but people can help them too. For example, they could leave some extra food out for hungry birds above ground level and perhaps even provide shelter for ground-nesting birds.'
Aberdeenshire Council warns of 'considerable risk of flooding'
Aberdeenshire Council warned of 'considerable risk of flooding' on the River Don.
A spokesperson said: 'Latest modelling from Sepa is indicating that there is now a considerable risk of flooding on the River Don at Inverurie, Kemnay and Kintore tomorrow (Sat) between 10am and 2pm.
'This has the potential to impact properties in low-lying areas and we would urge residents and businesses to get prepared and take immediate steps to protect their own property from flooding.'
Rotherham's football match with Ipswich called off and Scottish matches postponed
Rotherham's Championship game with Ipswich on Friday has been postponed due to Storm Babet.
The area has been hit with torrential rain over the last 24 hours and the River Don, which runs behind the AESSEAL New York Stadium has burst its banks.
That has left areas around the stadium flooded and after discussions with the Safety Advisory Group and the English Football League, the game has been called off.
There was no problem with the pitch at the stadium, with the game due to have been shown on Sky Sports.
A club statement read: "Rotherham United's Sky Bet Championship fixture against Ipswich Town has been postponed on the grounds of supporter safety following discussions with representatives from the Safety Advisory Group and the EFL which took place shortly after 4:30pm on Friday.
'After the River Don [which courses around the stadium] burst its banks, urgent discussions between representatives from the Safety Advisory Group/Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council and club safety personnel and the EFL - were held with the conclusion deeming the weather conditions and their subsequent effect on the surrounding area a danger to supporters.'
Two cinch Premiership matches are among six Scottish league games which have been postponed amid severe weather warnings.
Aberdeen's home match against Dundee and Motherwell's trip to face St Johnstone have fallen foul of the storm.
Floods cause traffic delays over an hour-long in Grantham
Flooding has caused 70 minute delays on the A1 near Grantham, National Highways has said.
In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the agency said: 'Due to extensive flooding in the area, the A1 has reduced capacity both ways between the A46 and B6326 near Grantham. Traffic Officers, Nottinghamshire Police and contractors are working to clear the water and get the lanes moving; there are delays of 70 minutes on the approach.'
Earlier today, London North Eastern Railway released footage showing flooding on the track between Grantham and Newark
Major incident declared in Derbyshire due to Storm Babet
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service said a major incident had been declared in the county due to the impact of Storm Babet.
In a post on social media site X, formerly Twitter, the service also advised people not travel unless essential until further notice this weekend.
The post added: 'Do not ignore road closed signs.'
A statement posted on the service's website added: 'Most roads in Derbyshire are affected by flooding and many are closed.
'We are calling on our communities to follow the advice below to keep safe: Do not travel unless essential from now until further information is available later in the weekend. Continue to watch for weather and flooding updates. Look out for vulnerable neighbours, especially if they have care services who may not be able to reach them.
'Never drive or walk into floodwater, even if it appears shallow - it could endanger your life.'
Eight people and a dog rescued from flood near Solihull
West Midlands Fire Service rescued eight people and a dog after vehicles became stranded in floodwater in the village of Balsall Common, near Solihull.
The brigade said in a statement: 'Please avoid the area around Balsall Street, Balsall Common.
'Several people whose vehicles got stuck in the water there have been brought to safety on rafts by our firefighters
'We were called at around 2.40pm. Crews responded from Canley and Sheldon fire stations, and our Technical Rescue Unit. Five men, two women, a child and a dog were ferried from five cars and a van. No-one was hurt.'
Man in his 60s dies in Shropshire floods
West Mercia Police said a man in his 60s died after getting caught in fast-flowing flood water from a brook that breached a road in Cleobury Mortimer, Shropshire, this morning.
The force said members of the public reported a man went under the water shortly before 10.40am.
Officers from West Mercia Police and Shropshire Fire and Rescue quickly attended but he was found dead at 12.35pm.
Formal identification has yet to take place but the family have been informed and are being supported by officers.
Three horses rescued from flooded field
Three horses had to be rescued from a flooded field in Aberdeenshire after being stranded overnight.
Leah Adams' three horses: Weirdo, Charm and Calypso; are kept in a field in Marykirk, and she was unable to rescue them last night as Storm Babet hit the UK.
Despite fences being destroyed and trees being brought down by the storm, her parents were able to reach the horses and get them to safety using a truck.
Ms Adams, 35, said: 'Last night was scary, I went to check them at 8.20pm and by the time I left them at 9pm the road was impassable. The horses just had to try stay safe and warm.
'My field is flooded, fences broken, electric fencing ruined, and old trees felled. I was unable to get to them this morning as every road out of Montrose to Marykirk was closed. My mum and dad have a truck and managed to get to them through the floods.'
Ms Adams, an office manager, from Montrose, Angus, added: 'I'm just glad they are not injured. After a storm in January 2022, I found poor Weirdo with the side of her chest sliced wide open from flying debris. With more red warning alerts I fear for more damage and rising costs.'
No injuries on Tui plane at Leeds Bradford
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said there were no reported injuries on the Tui plane which came off the runway at Leeds Bradford Airport, and no fire.
A spokesperson said: 'Command unit has now been stood down, and remaining crews are now assisting in evacuating all persons from the aircraft to the terminal.'
ScotRail disruption extended until Sunday
Train operator ScotRail has warned disruption to services could last until Sunday due to the impact of Storm Babet.
Routes that are currently closed will not re-open unless it is deemed safe to do so. The routes affected are between:
- Aberdeen and Elgin.
- Edinburgh and Aberdeen via Fife.
- Perth and Aberdeen via Dundee.
- Dunblane and Perth.
- Perth and Aviemore.
- Tain and Wick / Thurso.
- All Fife Circle services.
ScotRail said it is taking longer than expected for engineers to inspect routes for damage due to the impact of the weather. Customers have been warned they should only travel if necessary on routes affected.
Services between Glasgow Queen Street and Aberdeen/Inverness, and between Edinburgh Waverley and Aberdeen/Inverness are also subject to disruption.
Other routes across the network are still being impacted by precautionary speed restrictions, meaning services may be subject to delay or cancellation.
Breaking:Now Hull Trains says 'do not travel'
Hull Trains is the latest train operator to declare a 'do not travel' status today amid heavy rain and strong winds causing mayhem on the UK rail network.
It follows other operators such as Transport for Wales, LNER and Great Western Railway (on certain routes) which have also issued similar warnings.
750 emergency fire calls since yesterday
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) confirmed they have attended almost 70 weather related incidents across Scotland including rescues from homes and floodwaters as Storm Babet continues to cause an unprecedented level of flooding across parts of north-east Scotland.
SFRS said they had received around 750 emergency calls across Scotland and attended 300 incidents since yesterday. They have urged members of the public to stay away from flood waters and to follow evacuation advice.
David Lockhart, assistant chief officer at the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said: 'We are facing unprecedented flooding in many areas, and we must stress to the public that flood waters should always be avoided. Keep children and pets away from the water and do not travel in or around the affected areas wherever possible.'
Storm Babet is heading east to Scandinavia
Scandinavian countries were braced for Storm Babet's arrival today as the system heads east, with the strongest winds expected overnight into tomorrow.
The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) and Denmark's meteorological agency DMI have issued warnings over heavy rains, elevated water levels and gale-force winds with gusts reaching storm force.
Copenhagen Airport in Denmark said on social media that 77 flights to and from the hub had been cancelled.
Several ferry operators also suspended services between Denmark and Germany, as well as routes between Sweden and Germany and Sweden and Poland.
Only essential travel in Suffolk, says fire chief
Speaking about the major incident in Suffolk, the county's chief fire officer Jon Lacey said: 'The continuous heavy rainfall across Suffolk is causing severe flooding in several locations but is also making driving conditions more dangerous for everyone.
'We are therefore asking people to travel only where it is absolutely essential - for example collecting a child from school, accessing medical treatment or returning home from work. Reducing non-essential travel means more people stay safe and pressure on the emergency services is reduced.
'Although the Suffolk Resilience Forum will continue to do all it can to help protect our county, everyone needs to take precautions to ensure they do not put themselves in danger.
'We are responding whilst monitoring the situation closely and while the rain is forecast to ease over the weekend, we must all take action to ensure lives are protected.'
Tui and Leeds Bradford Airport statements
After a plane skidded off the runway at Leeds Bradford Airport, we've now got a statement from the airport.
A spokesperson said: 'We can confirm TUI flight TOM3551 arriving from Corfu at LBA this afternoon has moved off the runway whilst landing.
'We are working with the airline, relevant operations teams and emergency authorities to address this situation and remove passengers from the aircraft safely.'
Malcolm Fell wrote on Facebook posted pictures from his window on Facebook, captioned: 'Oops overshot runway at Leeds Bradford airport, bogged down on the grass - interesting landing greeted by fire engines and airport authorities.
The 737-800 aircraft has a total capacity of 189 passengers and is typically used by Tui for short and mid haul flights.
A Tui spokesman said: 'We are aware of an incident at Leeds Bradford Airport this afternoon, in which upon landing flight TOM3551 slightly veered off while turning into the taxiway.
'There are no reported injuries, and our ground team are on hand to support passengers as they disembark.'
Passengers stranded as plane leaves runway
We’re getting more details through now about the plane that skidded off the runway at Leeds Bradford Airport while landing during Storm Babet.
The Tui flight from Corfu came to a standstill on boggy grassland leaving more than 100 passengers stranded. Emergency services, including three ambulances, raced out to the Boeing 737-800 which landed in strong winds at 1.53pm.
All flights in and out of the airport were temporarily halted with some arrivals diverted to other airports including Manchester. A large emergency response is now in attendance including multiple ambulances and specialist fire resources.
Breaking:Six Scottish football matches off
The Scottish Professional Football League has confirmed the following postponements this weekend due to Storm Babet:
Premiership
- Aberdeen v Dundee
- St Johnstone v Motherwell
Championship
- Arbroath v Raith Rovers
League 1
- Cove Rangers v Montrose
League 2
- Elgin City v Forfar Athletic
- Stenhousemuir v Peterhead
Car is pushed 100ft down fast-flowing river
West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) has urged people not to drive through flood water after a car was pushed 100ft (30m) down a fast-flowing river in Northfield, Birmingham.
The driver, a man believed to be in his early 40s, had attempted to pass through a ford in The Mill Walk at around 8.30am today, WMFS said.
His vehicle was rapidly pushed downstream, before getting stuck, forcing the man to climb to safety on the roof of his vehicle, before using a tree branch to make his way to the embankment.
From there, he was led to safety by fire crews an hour after the initial 999 calls.
WMFS said he had a 'lucky escape', adding: 'We repeat: Do not drive into flood water. It puts you, and our firefighters who respond, in very real danger.'
Parkrun events cancelled across Britain
The following Parkrun events tomorrow have been cancelled due to the weather:
- Alvaston
- Chopwell Wood
- Clifton
- Clumber Park
- Crathes Castle
- Faskally Forest
- Forfar Loch
- Great Cornard
- Hamsterley Forest
- Hazlehead, Aberdeen
- Lochend Woods
- March
- Montrose
- New Earswick
- Perth
- Snowden Field
- St Andrews
- Stonehaven
- Thornbury
- Ury Riverside
- Wallaceneuk
- West Links
- Wetherby
- Whitekirk Hill
Met Office confirms 7in of rain has fallen
The Met Office says the highest amount of rainfall recorded since the start of yesterday has been 171mm (6.8in) at Waterside Perth in Scotland.
This is still well off the record, after some 238mm of rain was measured at Sloy Main Adit in Argyll & Bute between 9am on January 17, 1974 and 9am the following day. This is the highest total on record in Scotland for what the Met Office calls a 'rainfall day': the 24 hours from 9am to 9am.
Cordoned-off area in Brechin is widened
Emergency services have started widening the cordoned-off area beside the flooded parts of Brechin as more rescue vehicles arrive on the scene and the wind and rain from Storm Babet intensified.
A water rescue unit with one boat has been set up at the lower end of Bridge Street where it meets River Street and another boat could be seen being dragged by crews through the floodwater along River Street to the same spot.
75 people now in rest centres in Angus
Jacqui Semple, head of risk, resilience and safety for Angus Council, said more than 75 people were in rest centres across the region after being forced to leave their flooded homes.
She said more than 50 were in the rest centre in Brechin, with 17 in the one in Montrose and nine in the one in Forfar.
'People are devastated. This is awful,' she said. 'It would be awful. Your house flooded, your belongings, the impact emotionally and physically and everything that goes with that.
'They've got all of those people who have been affected arriving at our rest centres in such a state - wet, cold, upset and just so unbelievably upset.
'I can't underestimate the fact that this is not just about the process of evacuating and rescuing. We're doing that the try and save people's lives and sometimes the hard reality is that property becomes a secondary thing but all of us like our personal possessions and things that are precious to us and we need to always never ever forget the human factor in this.'
Only a helicopter can access Angus village
People were rescued from flood water at 60 homes in and around Brechin as hundreds of houses in the Angus Council area flooded, a senior official said.
Jacqui Semple, the council's lead for risk, resilience and safety, said those rescued had refused previous evacuation efforts. She said the village of Edzell has been completely cut off with no emergency access except via helicopter.
Ms Semple said the council is working with the local flood group to provide support and a rest centre has been set up there.
She said homes have been evacuated in Monifieth, on the outskirts of Dundee as well as at Marykirk on the border with Aberdeenshire.
Breaking:Evacuation of homes in Monifieth
Angus Council has confirmed some homes in Monifieth, near Dundee, will be evacuated.
Councillor Lloyd Melville said that he could not confirm numbers affected but urged residents to leave if they are asked to.
Mr Melville said: 'It will be hard for some people to leave their homes but they absolutely need to do so if asked.'
He also thanked council staff: 'They have been absolutely knocking their pan in (to keep people safe). They are the people who need the thanks. They are literally saving people's lives.'
Storm Babet UK rail travel update
Heavy rain and strong winds from Storm Babet are causing major transport disruption for railway passengers today. No trains are currently running between:
- Aberdeen and Elgin
- Edinburgh and Aberdeen via Fife
- Perth and Aberdeen via Dundee
- Dunblane and Perth
- Perth and Aviemore
- Tain and Wick/Thurso
- Glasgow Queen Street and Aberdeen/Inverness
- Edinburgh Waverley and Aberdeen/Inverness
- Derby and Sheffield or Nottingham
- Walsall and Rugeley Trent Valley
- Shrewsbury and Hereford/Wolverhampton
- Hereford and Birmingham New Street
- Chester and Crewe
- Wrexham Central and Bidston
- All lines through Swindon
'Tough 24 hours' for Aberdeenshire in storm
Aberdeenshire has had a 'tough 24 hours', the council's chief executive has said.
Speaking to BBC Scotland's Lunchtime Live, Jim Savage said people in the region's communities 'know how to deal with bad weather'.
Mr Savage said there were around 20 road closures and 'a couple of thousand' people without power. Police were in the worst-affected areas knocking on doors and ensuring residents were prepared in case of flooding.
Mr Savage said: 'Thankfully, unlike some colleagues a bit further south, we have not had the extent of the flooding experience yet so far. But in the same way we do have concerns looking at the weather forecast.'
Mr Savage said there had been a 'small number' of people in the five rest centres set up and many others had managed to source accommodation with family or friends.
He urged residents to 'take heed' of the warning to stay at home, adding: 'This really is a time when it's to really stay safe and stay at home and look after yourself, most importantly, but if we know more about particular risks we'll be making sure people are aware.'
'Very difficult days for Scottish communities'
Pascal Lardet, Sepa flood duty manager, said: 'These are very difficult days for communities in Scotland who are experiencing flooding, in some cases for the second time in a month.
'There is more rain to come, and Sepa staff are working around the clock to provide vital information to partners and the public.
'We started issuing regional flood alerts on Tuesday to provide early awareness and help people prepare, and these are being updated as required.
'We continue to monitor river levels and issue localised flood warnings as required.
'However, it is important to stress that not all areas that could be affected have flood warning schemes, so please do take a flood alert in your area as advance notice that you could be affected.'
Storm Babet will continue into tomorrow
Storm Babet is set to continue into tomorrow with widespread impact on transport and infrastructure expected, the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (Sepa) has said.
Sepa has issued 12 regional flood alerts, 16 localised flood warnings and five severe flood warnings across Scotland.
The agency said there remains a danger to life, with a large part of central and north-east Scotland expecting more severe weather throughout today and into tomorrow.
South Aberdeenshire, Dundee and Angus and the eastern parts of Tayside have had very high rainfall.
Sepa said the 'highest concern' areas are the North Esk and South Esk river.
A severe flood warning in the North Esk region is around Marykirk, with another flood warning for Logie Mill and Craigo. The three severe warnings in the South Esk region are in Brechin, Kinnard/Bridge of Dun, and Finavon and Tannadice.
Sepa also warned there is an increasing risk across the eastern borders of Scotland and in East Lothian.
Flooding damages properties in Dundee
Flooding from Storm Babet has led to properties being damaged in Dundee, with roads closed around the city.
The council has opened a rest centre for those affected by the severe weather.
Dundee City Council said: 'Storm Babet is bringing incredibly challenging conditions, particularly in the north and west of the city. This includes roads disruption, flood damage to properties and fallen trees.'
It continued: 'Flood gates at Broughty Ferry and Riverside have been closed due to the heavy rain and high winds. Sepa has issued a flood alert for Dundee and Angus.
'Residents in flood-prone areas are recommended to stock up on their own flood prevention including sandbags or door flood stops from DIY stores and builders' merchants.'
27,000 homes in Scotland lose power in storm
More than 27,000 homes in Scotland lost power due to Storm Babet, according to Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN).
The energy provider said as of 11.30am today it had restored services to almost 24,000 homes and is working to reconnect 4,000 other properties which have been cut off.
Aberdeenshire, Angus and Perthshire are the main areas affected by power cuts.
Andy Smith, SSEN distribution operations director said: "Storm Babet's severe effects continue to be felt, but our teams are making good progress.
'Through our automatic switching systems and the work of our teams on the ground, we have reconnected the majority of our customers who lost their supplies, and that effort continues today. We have 10 times our usual operational capacity to respond to issues as they occur.'
Flooding leaves station 'looking like a canal'
Dramatic footage has shown how severe flooding has left one railway station 'looking like a canal' after being battered by Storm Babet.
Network Rail shared the video showing water gushing along the tracks and reaching almost as high as the platform at Wood End station in Warwickshire.
It comes after extreme weather conditions caused train disruptions across the area, closing several routes across the Midlands and North.
Posting on X, Network Rail wrote today: 'This dramatic video shows significant flooding at Wood End station in Warwickshire. Our teams are continuing to respond to flooding incidents across the network.'
One person commented: 'It looks more like a canal than a train station. Crazy scenes.' Another added: 'Wow. Incredible that the rail track, usually elevated a bit, became the default water course for the rain.. not other streams, storm drains etc.'
The video forms part of this compilation put together by MailOnline today:
Flooding impact on rail lines intensifies
National Rail Enquiries said flooding has blocked all lines running through Swindon.
There is also major disruption in the Midlands and northern England.
No trains are running between Derby and Sheffield or Nottingham.
Other routes blocked include between Walsall and Rugeley Trent Valley; between Shrewsbury and Hereford/Wolverhampton; between Hereford and Birmingham New Street.
There are also no services between Chester and Crewe; between Wrexham Central and Bidston; and between Chester and Hooton.
Flooding shuts sections of A46 and A52
National Highways said the A46 in Leicestershire is closed in both directions between the A606 (near Widmerpool) and A6006 (near Sixhills) due to flooding.
Floodwater has also forced the closure of the A52 in Derbyshire eastbound from the B6003 (near Bardhills) to the A6007 (near Bramcote).
What is a red 'danger to life' warning?
What is a red 'danger to life' warning and what does it mean? Click on MailOnline's explainer below for everything you need to know about the rare weather alert:
Exact date Storm Babet will end
The Met Office weather warnings for Storm Bebet are due to run until the end of tomorrow. So the official end time of the storm is 11.59pm on Saturday, October 21.
Looking further ahead, Met Office expert meteorologist Chris Almond said: 'Sunday looks like a quieter day for many, although there will still be some showers around. However, in lighter winds and with temperatures around average, it could feel comparatively pleasant for a short time.
'However, on Monday, more heavy rain and showers look like spreading in from the west and southwest, and that sets the scene for the coming week, with all areas seeing further spells of rain at times, albeit with brief drier interludes.'
Met Office says Storm Babet is 'exceptional'
The Met Office has just issued a statement from its chief meteorologist Andy Page, who has described Storm Babet as an 'exceptional event'.
He said: 'This is not usual autumn weather. This is an exceptional event, and we are likely to continue to see significant impacts with the potential for further flooding and damage to properties. There are numerous National Severe Weather Warnings in place for both rain and wind over the coming days.
'Today parts of eastern Scotland could see a further 20 to 30mm of rain, but the east-facing high ground from southeast Scotland to the Cheviots, south to the Peak District may see as much as 80 to 120 mm of rain locally. Strong easterly winds may exacerbate the impacts of the heavy rain.
'We have issued a second red warning covering parts of Angus and Aberdeenshire for Saturday with 70 to 100mm rain possible. This has the potential to cause further impacts in this already hard-hit area.'
Travel updates on Storm Babet road closures
Several sections of major Scottish roads are closed due to flooding. Traffic Scotland said these include:
- The A92 closed at Parbroath Crossroads, Fife.
- The A90 closed to northbound traffic at Struan Roundabout, Dundee.
- The A90 closed to southbound traffic at Stonehaven Junction, Aberdeenshire.
- The A90 closed between Myrekirk and Swallow Roundabouts, Dundee.
- The A85 closed at Huntingtower, near Perth.
Drivers are advised to take care when crossing several bridges, including the:
- A898 Erskine Bridge, West Dunbartonshire
- M90 Queensferry Crossing between Edinburgh and Fife
- A87 Skye Bridge
Top ripped off lighthouse at South Shields
We're hearing more details now about the lighthouse at the mouth of the River Tyne which has been damaged in Storm Babet.
The Port of Tyne authority has said that with the ongoing dangerous sea conditions, it is not safe to assess the damage to the structure at South Shields.
No traffic was going in and out of the river with 6m (20ft) of sea swell, it said.
The public have been urged to keep away from the area, particularly the piers, by the port authority, due to the unsafe weather conditions.
New red warning will 'intensify' disruption
Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf warned the further red warning issued by the Met Office would 'intensify' the disruption caused by torrential rain from Storm Babet.
Mr Yousaf posted on X regarding the 'further red weather warning issued by @metoffice for Saturday'.
He told people this would 'intensify the disruption already being experienced'.
Mr Yousaf said the Scottish Government would continue to liaise with local organisations and the emergency services. 'People's safety is our number one priority,' he stressed.
More flooding on the way for Ireland
Ireland's meteorological agency has issued fresh weather warnings for intense rain, days after parts of the country were severely flooded during Storm Babet.
has issued a status orange rain warning for counties Dublin and Wicklow, cautioning of the risk of further floods and dangerous driving conditions during spells of heavy rain until 8am tomorrow.
There is a chance of thunder in the east of the country as a separate yellow rain warning is also in effect for those counties, as well as Meath and Louth, until 9pm tonight.
Met Office warns of another four inches of rain
The Met Office has issued another red weather warning in Scotland for the whole of tomorrow, saying further heavy rainfall could lead to more flooding and disruption.
The forecaster said: 'Prolonged and very heavy rain is expected to develop across parts of Angus and Aberdeenshire area throughout Saturday, in areas already affected by severe flooding.
'Accumulations of 70mm (2.8in) to 100mm (4in) are expected over a period of 18 to 24 hours, the highest accumulations over the hills.
'Less rainfall is expected around coastal areas, but impacts from the higher rainfall further west will extend towards the coast.'
Woman evacuated moments after moving in
A woman has told how she was evacuated from her home due to the risk of flooding from Storm Babet, just over an hour after she had moved in.
Terri Masson, 33, had only moved into her new home in Meikle Mill in Brechin yesterday when she was told by the council she would have to leave at 4.30pm.
While her home has not been hit by the flooding, it is one of hundreds which are in the evacuation zone. The mother-of-five asked friends from Montrose to come and collect her from the town.
'I moved in yesterday and was in not even two hours and got told to evacuate,' she said. 'I hadn't even unpacked my stuff, nothing. I had just started to unpack and they came to the door and they were like 'you have to go'. We left about 5.15pm.
'I knew Brechin could flood when the weather is bad, but I've never been in the middle of something like this. It was scary for the kids - we got out as quick as we could.'
Pictures reveal M4 carnage after major crash
We're now seeing the first pictures of chaos on the M4 after it was closed in both directions between Bath and Chippenham due to a serious crash.
The crash happened shortly after 9am and involved multiple cars and a lorry between junctions 17 and 18. It is not yet clear whether it is weather-related.
A Wiltshire Police spokesperson says: 'Due to the nature of the collision and the vehicles involved, this closure is likely to remain in place for some time. Drivers should avoid the area if possible.'
South Shields lighthouse loses its dome
Astonishing pictures show the moment huge 40ft-high waves destroyed a historic lighthouse as Storm Babet batters Britain's coastline.
South Shields lighthouse was today missing its distinctive red and white dome which was torn off by the ferocious sea.
Photographer Vicki Sinclair photographed the lighthouse - at the end of the River Tyne - before and after the waves smashed into the 128-year-old landmark.
She said: 'I'd take pictures of the waves crashing over it on Thursday when it still had the dome intact. I came down this morning to see what the waves were like again and I noticed the dome was missing.
'The waves must have been so strong it was just ripped off. The Port of Tyne authority has been in touch with me to use the photographs to assess the damage. It's wild out there.'
Onlookers expressed their shock at the force of Storm Babet.
One said: 'I live not far from the lighthouse and just walked out to buy some cigarettes but I could barely walk without getting shoved back by the wind. I've never known a storm like it. It's a real shame the lighthouse has been damaged. It's one of the most recognisable landmarks on the Tyne.'
AFTER:
BEFORE:
'Depleted' sandbag supplies in Aberdeenshire
Aberdeenshire Council's supplies of sandbags have been 'depleted' and will not be replenished, the local authority confirmed.
A spokesperson for the council urged residents not to attend any road depots for sandbags as crews are focused on providing 'direct support' in communities.
The local authority also confirmed rest centres would continue to stay open in Inverurie, Kemnay and Kintore.
They urged residents not to travel unless it was 'absolutely essential'.
Storm Babet is changing Durham's coastline
Storm Babet has already caused changes to Durham's industrial coastline, experts have said.
Researchers from Newcastle University are bracing the elements to document how the surging seas have eroded the landscape. They have already recorded waves washing away fragile and toxic coal waste deposits that sit just above the high-water mark, with even heavier seas expected.
At the peak of the coal industry in the North East, approximately 2.5 million tonnes of waste were deposited on Durham's beaches annually. Locations like Blast Beach, near Seaham, which featured as a backdrop in the film Alien 3, have seen significant spoil erosion since industrial tipping ceased.
Now, using drones to survey the beaches and map out the changes, a research team is working to measure the changes along the coastline, particularly in response to Storm Babet. They have already found around one metre of erosion at Blast Beach as a result of the first high tide this morning.
Police confirm second Storm Babet victim
Police Scotland have just issued a statement about the man who has died after a falling tree hit his van.
A spokesperson said: 'Around 5.05pm on Thursday, October 19, 2023, police received a report of a one-vehicle crash in which a tree struck a van on the B9127 at Whigstreet near Forfar.
'Emergency services attended, however, the 56-year-old driver was pronounced dead at the scene. Next of kin have been informed and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal. The road remains closed.'
Water in Brechin 'sitting at windowsill-height'
Angus councillor Gavin Nicol said the flooding in Brechin is far worse than previous times.
He said: 'The water is sitting at windowsill-height currently - with floods in the past we've just been ankle-deep in water, if that.'
He said since around 6am rescue teams, including the police, coastguard and fire service, have been helping people from their flooded homes by boat.
They are also rescuing upstairs residents who are stuck with no power and in some cases no working toilets.
He added: 'There's one or two cars floating about. These houses will not be habitable in the near future. It's not just water - there's sewage as well.'
Rescue crews 'dealing with over 100 calls'
Angus Council said parts of the county were now only accessible by boat after flooding from Storm Babet.
'Over 350 homes across Angus were contacted yesterday and advised to evacuate,' a spokesman said. 'Brechin, and increasingly other parts of Angus, are now only accessible via boat. Rescue crews are now dealing with over 100 calls from areas which were asked to evacuate yesterday evening.
'Emergency rest centres in Brechin, Montrose and Forfar are open to all those in need in Angus, pets are welcome too. We ask that anyone attending a rest centre brings with them all the supplies they need, along with sleeping bags and medication to last them over the weekend.'
The council also appealed for warm clothing, adding: 'If anyone lives near the Brechin Community Campus that is able to get to the rest centre without putting themselves at risk, we are looking for donations of all types of warm clothing for adults.
'We now have in excess of 40 adults who have arrived at the rest centre with only the soaked clothes they have arrived in.'
Angus Council appeals for clothing donations
Angus Council has appealed for donations of warm clothing after more than 40 people arrived at its rest centres in soaked clothes, as the county deals with flooding from Storm Babet.
The council said the South Esk river is 4.4 metres higher than usual, causing 'unprecedented' flooding in Brechin.
There have been more than 100 calls for help after an area covering hundreds of homes was advised yesterday to evacuate, with conditions expected to deteriorate into the weekend.
Flood-hit locals might not be home for Christmas
Some people affected by the floods in Brechin, Angus, may not be back in their homes by Christmas, one local councillor has warned as he said waters in the Scottish town are still rising.
Gavin Nicol said the town's flood barriers are 3.8m high but the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) has warned the water could reach 5m.
He said: 'With the amount of rain we're getting it might even supersede that. It's just a disaster. The water is not going down, it is still rising.'
Mr Nicol, Conservative representative for the Brechin and Edzell Ward on Angus Council, said high tide at around 5pm today could pose a particular problem.
He said: 'My thoughts go out to those affected. With this time of year, it's coming up to Christmas, and some people might not even get back in their homes by then.'
Rescue crews cannot reach Brechin residents
Councillor and Brechin resident Chris Beattie said some people in the Angus town remain stranded because rescue crews cannot reach them due to the flooding.
He said: 'The bottom of the town is under about five or six feet of water. People are being rescued and taken to the Brechin rescue centre.
'Some people are stranded - they might have several feet of water to cross to get to the door and at the moment it is not safe to do that.
'Some people are turning up at the rescue centre in soaking wet clothes so we're asking for donations of things like toiletries and blankets.'
The SNP representative for the Brechin and Edzell ward on Angus Council said donations are only being sought from locals who can safely reach Brechin Community Campus, and he urged people in the area to stay safe.
Helicopter joins search for man trapped in car
The search for a man who apparently became trapped in his car south of Marykirk in Aberdeenshire is ongoing this morning, with a helicopter now involved in efforts.
Coastguard crews were called at about 3.15am, and were still searching the river as of 9.30am as air crews track the entire coastline between St Cyrus and Montrose.
A coastguard spokeswoman said: 'We are assisting the police in a search south of Marykirk. We were made aware at 3.13am, a search helicopter is still in operation.'
A Police Scotland spokeswoman added: 'Around 3am today, police received a report of a man within a vehicle trapped in floodwater near Marykirk. Multi-agency searches are ongoing and the public are asked to avoid the area for their safety.'
How Storm Babet is affecting Midlands trains
There is severe disruption to train services in the Midlands due to flooding.
National Rail Enquiries said all lines are affected between Worcester Foregate Street and Stratford-upon-Avon, between Birmingham New Street and Cheltenham Spa, and between Longbridge and Bromsgrove.
The railway is blocked between Walsall and Rugeley Trent Valley, and between Hereford and Shrewsbury.
Some lines are closed between Shrewsbury and Wolverhampton.
Speed restrictions are in place between Birmingham International and Coventry.
The railway between Sheffield and Derby was blocked by a fallen tree earlier today but has since reopened.
Rail updates in North East and Yorkshire
National Rail Enquiries added that train services are disrupted in North East England and Yorkshire because of severe weather.
Some lines are blocked between Sheffield and Lincoln due to flooding. Trains are unable to call at Rotherham.
A speed restriction because of high winds is also in place between Newcastle and Edinburgh, causing delays.
Flooding affecting rail lines in North West
National Rail Enquiries said several routes in north-west England and north Wales are closed due to flooding.
These include all lines between Chester and Crewe; between Wrexham Central and Bidston; and between Hooton and both Chester and Ellesmere Port.
Some lines are also blocked between Crewe and Shrewsbury due to flooding.
Students make light of foul weather in Leeds
Students in Leeds refused to let Storm Babet dampen their spirits as they braved the wind and rain to hit the town last night. Here is the full story on MailOnline:
Breaking:Search for man trapped in vehicle
Police are searching for a man in the village of Marykirk in Aberdeenshire today followinng reports of a person trapped in a vehicle in floodwater.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: 'Multi-agency searches are ongoing and the public are asked to avoid the area for their safety.'
'People will have lost everything' in Brechin
Brechin and Edzell councillor, Jill Scott,, who lives in Brechin, has been speaking about the flooding this morning
She added: 'It's horrific. It's just absolutely horrendous. I've never seen anything like it. People are trapped in closes, not even in River Street but round the back at Nursery Park. Some have been stuck there for hours.
'The boats are trying to get to them. They can't get to them because the current is too strong. There will be hundreds of houses flooded.
'It unbelievable. It's devastating. I don't know what the council's going to do to be honest - how many people they are going to have to rehome. People will have lost everything.'
More support for flood-hit residents in Ireland
Ireland's Minister for Finance Michael McGrath has said a proposal is being worked on to increase the level of support that will be offered to those affected by flooding in Co Cork.
He said money will be available via the Emergency Humanitarian Aid Scheme administered by the Red Cross to people and businesses affected by flooding 'from next week'. This currently offers an initial €5,000 and further support up to €20,000 based on the scale of damage.
'The assessment of the full scale of the damage to homes and businesses will take some time, but the support will be there and that is the overarching message,' Mr McGrath told RTE Radio today.
Mr McGrath added that as 'many' businesses did not have flooding insurance prior to this incident, 'there will be a need to go further'. He said a proposal was being worked on by Minister for Enterprise Simon Coveney to offer 'an increased level of support', and would go to Cabinet next week.
Mr McGrath and Mr Coveney visited areas affected by the flooding in their home county of Cork yesterday. Pictured below is flooding at Midleton, Co Cork:
Brechin councillor labels floods 'horrific'
Councillor Jill Scott, who lives in Brechin, Angus, said the floods are 'horrific' with people trapped and hundreds of homes flooded.
She said one family contacted her around 5am after having to leave their ground floor flat in Nursery Park when it flooded. They are currently trapped in the hallway upstairs and are huddling together for warmth, she said.
Ms Scott, who represents the Brechin and Edzell ward on Angus Council as an independent, said the family of three, including a woman in her 60s, her son and grandson, are currently unable to be rescued due to the force of the floodwater.
She said: 'It's all white water running round there. It's like a river.'
LNER confirms ticket restrictions are lifted
LNER has said there will be no services operating north of Edinburgh today, and a ‘do not travel’ message is in place for this part of the route.
It has added that ticket restrictions have been lifted for customers travelling to or from Edinburgh today, so they can travel on the first available LNER service:
Concerns over trees and debris on UK roads
AA patrol of the year Nick Powell said it is 'very likely trees and debris will be littering the roads'.
He went on: 'Drivers should be very cautious, especially in rural or woody areas. If you see twigs or small branches on the road it could be a sign that a tree has fallen just around the bend, so pay extra attention to the path up ahead.
'As always in wet and windy weather, leave plenty of space behind other vehicles and adjust your speed to suit the conditions, especially when crossing bridges or passing high-sided vehicles.
'There may be traffic delays so make sure you bring essentials with you on your journey, even if it is only short, such as warm layers, a hot drink and a fully charged mobile phone.'
RAC issues urgent storm warning to drivers
RAC spokesman Rod Dennis said the weather is making driving challenging.
He said: 'The exceptional amount of rain being brought in by Storm Babet means conditions on the roads are proving extremely difficult.
'We urge drivers to heed the warnings, especially where flooding has already happened or is likely over the next few days. Drivers should never attempt to drive through floodwater as the risks are just too great.
'The disruption to rail services also means more people will take to their cars, making spray and surface water on the roads even more of a problem.
'It's vital anyone who absolutely has to travel prepares themselves for a longer journey, or considers waiting until the storm has passed before making it.'
Newcastle students brave rain and wind
Students in Newcastle were determined not to let Storm Babet ruin their evening as they flocked to the city's pubs and bars in fancy dress costume last night.
Read the full story and see all the photographs in this story on MailOnline:
Latest UK travel update as Storm Babet hits
Heavy rain and strong winds from Storm Babet are causing major transport disruption.
In Scotland, several major road sections and rail routes are closed, while air passengers are being hit by flight cancellations.
Traffic Scotland said flooding has forced the closure of the A85 at Huntingtower near Perth and the A90 between Myrekirk and Swallow roundabouts, Dundee.
The A9 Jubilee Bridge near Dunkeld, Perthshire is shut due to adverse weather conditions, while fallen trees are blocking the A90 between Ellon and Bogbrae, Aberdeenshire; and the A7 at Langholm, Dumfries and Galloway.
Drivers are also being advised to take care when crossing several bridges in Scotland, including the A898 Erskine Bridge, West Dunbartonshire; the M90 Queensferry Crossing between Edinburgh and Fife; and the A87 Skye Bridge.
ScotRail said train services remain suspended on several routes in north and north-east Scotland.
No trains are running between Aberdeen and Elgin; Edinburgh and Aberdeen via Fife; Perth and Aberdeen via Dundee; Dunblane and Perth; Perth and Aviemore; and Tain and Wick/Thurso.
All Fife Circle services are also suspended, impacting services between Glasgow Queen Street and Aberdeen/Inverness; and Edinburgh Waverley and Aberdeen/Inverness.
National Highways said the A15 Humber Bridge between North Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire is closed in both directions to 'high-sided and vulnerable vehicles' due to strong winds. Diversion routes have been created.
Nine departures and seven arrivals were cancelled at Aberdeen Airport today. Dozens of flights were axed yesterday.
Scottish regional airline Loganair has cancelled dozens of flights due to the weather.
River levels are 'completely unprecedented'
Angus Council also posted on social media about the extent the flood defences had breached in the town of Brechin.
'It has been a very challenging night, Brechin defences were breached around 04:00 this morning and the river levels are around 4.4m above normal levels. This is completely unprecedented and at these heights, gauges have become unreliable.
'We completely understand that it is very hard to leave your home but parts of Brechin, and increasingly other parts of Angus, are now only accessible via boat.
'Rescue crews are now dealing with around 100 calls from areas which were asked to evacuate yesterday evening.'
The council urged anyone at risk of flooding to evacuate as soon as possible. Three rest centres have been set up nearby for those who need to leave.
Driver reveals a tree branch hit his car
Andrew Batchelor, who runs Dundee Culture - a platform which showcases the achievements, culture and heritage of Dundee - said his car was hit by a branch on his way home from Edinburgh Airport.
'We just arrived home from Ibiza and the flight was delayed due to operational problems and of course the weather,' the 23-year-old who lives in Dundee said.
'When we were heading towards Perth, a branch struck our car, fortunately nothing was damaged but you could hear the wind and rain banging on the car as we headed home.'
Here is a video of the conditions Mr Batchelor experienced while driving home:
Council tells residents how to evacuate
Aberdeenshire Council has issued instructions to residents who may have to evacuate.
A spokesperson said: 'If the police, council or other emergency services, ask you to leave your home turn off the electricity and water supply at the main switch and take your grab bag with you.
'If you have to evacuate your home, it will make things a lot easier if you have prepared a 'Grab Bag' in advance containing a packing list to follow should you need to use it.'
Huge waves crash into Stonehaven
Some of the biggest waves so far have been seen at Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire.
Paddleboarding instructor David Jacobs, 56, said he saw waves around 20ft high in the town yesterday (pictured below) - and expects it to be worse today.
Mr Jacobs said: 'The waves were about 20ft, or seven metres.
'The last time I have seen weather like this was 2014, it is quite spectacular to watch but bits of trees and rocks land onto the road. It worries me for other people.'
Council warns of 'very serious emergency'
Angus Council has issued an urgent update on Storm Babet, saying the area is 'in the middle of a very serious emergency' and the 'flooding is unprecedented'.
The local authority said in a post on Facebook: 'DO NOT TRAVEL! If you think you have an appointment, you don't! If you REALLY think you need to get to work, check with your boss. If you're a boss, PLEASE consider your employees and the need for them to attend work.'
Five severe flood warnings for Scotland
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) has now issued five severe flood warnings – including a new one for Kinnaird/Bridge of Don north of Aberdeen.
It has warned that river levels could reach an 'unprecedented' five metres above normal levels.
Sepa added that the villages of Logie Mill and Craigo to places at risk of severe flooding in Angus, as well as Brechin and nearby Finavon and Tannadice, while the village of Marykirk in Aberdeenshire was put on high alert.
Video shows flooding in evacuated Brechin
A video filmed in Brechin, Angus, appears to show the river has spilled over defences overnight and is now causing major flooding.
It comes after efforts were made to convince residents of Brechin to evacuate 400 homes, with the coastguard and fire crews going door-to-door after some people refused to leave.
ScotRail confirms trains remain suspended
ScotRail said train services remain suspended on several routes in north and north-east Scotland.
They are suspended between Aberdeen and Elgin; Edinburgh and Aberdeen via Fife; Perth and Aberdeen via Dundee; Dunblane and Perth; Perth and Aviemore; and Tain and Wick/Thurso.
All Fife Circle services are also suspended, impacting services between Glasgow Queen Street and Aberdeen/Inverness; and Edinburgh Waverley and Aberdeen/Inverness.
Storm Babet roads travel update
Several sections of major Scottish roads are closed due to Storm Babet. Traffic Scotland said these road sections are closed:
- The A85 at Huntingtower near Perth due to flooding.
- The A9 Jubilee Bridge near Dunkeld, Perthshire due to adverse 'weather conditions'.
- The A90 between Myrekirk and Swallow Roundabouts, Dundee due to flooding.
- The A90 between Ellon and Bogbrae, Aberdeenshire due to a fallen tree.
- The A7 in both directions at Langholm, Dumfries and Galloway due to a fallen tree.
Drivers were advised to take care when crossing several bridges, including:
- A898 Erskine Bridge, West Dunbartonshire
- M90 Queensferry Crossing between Edinburgh and Fife
- A87 Skye Bridge
Scottish river TRIPLES in height in 12 hours
A river in Perth and Kinross tripled in height in 12 hours, according to realtime data from RiverTrack.
Alyth Burn, Alyth, Perth and Kinross, rose to 1447mm by 12.09am. At 8.09am on Thursday, it measured 413mm.
A rescue centre was set up at Alyth for people to go if they needed to seek refuge.
The A90 was closed between Dundee and Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, due to the Sepa flood warning.
Breaking:Flooding at Swindon blocks trains
Away from Scotland, Great Western Railway (GWR) has revealed that lines are blocked due to heavy rain flooding the railway at Swindon in Wiltshire.
Train services between London Paddington and Bristol Temple Meads may be cancelled, delayed or diverted until 10am.
Storm Babet latest rail travel news
Train lines between Edinburgh, Inverness and Aberdeen are being badly affected by severe weather, and ScotRail has confirmed these routes are suspended:
- Between Edinburgh and Glenrothes with Thornton / Cowdenbeath / Perth / Aberdeen via Fife / Elgin
- Between Glasgow Queen Street and Perth / Dundee / Aberdeen / Inverness / Oban
- Between Stonehaven / Aberdeen and Inverness (trains are shuttling between Inverness and Elgin only)
- Between Dundee / Huntly and Aberdeen
- Between Inverness and Wick
The following issues have also been reported in Scotland:
- Edinburgh - Dunblane: Speed restrictions mean trains are being delayed
- Glasgow Central – Gourock: Failure of the electricity means lines are closed
Caledonian Sleeper said services tonight between Aberdeen / Fort William / Inverness and London Euston (in both directions) have been cancelled. Services between Glasgow / Edinburgh and London Euston are set to be running as scheduled but may arrive later than planned due to speed restrictions.
CrossCountry said services will terminate at Edinburgh, not running north towards Aberdeen or west towards Glasgow Central. No alternative transport is available. Delays are expected between Newcastle and Edinburgh due to speed restrictions.
LNER said there will be no services operating north of Edinburgh today, and a ‘do not travel’ message is in place for this part of the route.
20,000 homes lose power during Storm Babet
More than 20,000 homes lost power during Storm Babet, according to Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN), predominantly in Aberdeenshire and Angus.
By 9pm last night, SSEN said it had restored services to almost 18,500 homes. We await a further update this morning.
Is Storm Babet a record-breaker for rain?
The Met Office says the highest amount of rainfall recorded since the start of yesterday has been 164mm (6.4in) at Waterside Perth in Scotland.
But this is still way off the record, after some 238mm of rain was measured at Sloy Main Adit in Argyll & Bute between 9am on January 17, 1974 and 9am the following day.
This is the highest total on record in Scotland for what the Met Office calls a 'rainfall day': the 24 hours from 9am to 9am.
The highest equivalent total recorded in England is 279mm, on July 18, 1955 at Martinstown in Dorset, while the highest in Wales is 211mm, on November 11, 1929 at Lluest Wen Reservoir in Mid Glamorgan.
The highest in Northern Ireland is 159mm, recorded on October 31, 1968 at Tollymore Forest in County Down.
The highest total for any 24-hour period in the UK is 341.4mm, recorded from 6pm December 4, 2015 to 6pm the following day at Honister Pass in Cumbria.
Met Office confirms month's worth of rain
The Met Office has just confirmed that the highest amount of rainfall recorded since the start of yesterday has been 164mm (6.4in) at Waterside Perth.
Scotland typically receives around 168mm of rainfall in October, so that means the country has received more than this amount in the span of 31 hours.
Woman's body recovered from river in Angus
The body of a 57-year-old woman was recovered yesterday from a river at Glen Esk in Angus, where a red weather alert is in place.
Police Scotland were called to the Water of Lee at Glen Esk at 1.45pm after she was swept into the river, and the body was found at 4pm. A spokesperson added: 'There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.'
Full story - Storm Babet targets England
We'll start with a look at our top story today, with Storm Babet now turning its fury on England after battering much of Scotland.
More than an inch (25.4mm) of rain fell on parts of England overnight and motorways were left with standing water. Here is the full story on MailOnline:
Welcome to MailOnline's Storm Babet liveblog
Good morning, and welcome to MailOnline's latest Storm Babet liveblog today as the UK braces for further chaos after a day of 70mph winds and heavy rainfall.
Much of country is covered by weather warnings - with a rare red 'danger to life' alert in place for parts of North East Scotland, where a 57-year-old woman was swept to her death yesterday.
Follow MailOnline's liveblog throughout today for all the latest updates.
- Third Storm Babet death confirmed
- LNER suspends ALL trains
- Tui Airways flight skids off runway
- New red warning for tomorrow
- Storm Babet claims second victim
- 20,000 homes lose power during Storm Babet
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- Harry and Meghan's Archewell Foundation is banned from raising or spending money after it is deemed DELINQUENT for failing to pay fees and submit records
- California's wealthiest farming family threatens to reshape small town with new mega-warehouse for big-box retailers that will transform area into an international trading hub
- TOM BOWER: Nigeria may have greeted Harry and Meghan with adulation... but cynics might think there's another motive behind this bout of self-promotion
- If Meghan really does hope to be President one day, this was a masterstroke of a launch pad: IAN GALLAGHER reflects on the Duchess' skillfully-controlled tour of Nigeria
- REVEALED: Shocking transformation of 12-year-old girl 'tortured to death by dad and his fiancé in basement'... as picture reveals chilling detail on victim's hand
- Estate agent lists 'charming' £125,000 three-bedroom house as 'a cozy retreat for gatherings with loved ones'... but it has a terrible dark secret
- Fire sale! Ant McPartlin's ex-wife puts five-bed west London mansion on the market for just £4m - less than a year after a blaze ripped through the old marital home
- Inside the 'slum-like' Magaluf strips where families fear to tread: How aggressive reps selling cheap drinks try to drag mothers pushing prams into bars to do SHOTS… as mayor calls for 9.30pm drinking curfew
- Texas school principal's husband is exposed as suspected pedophile 'who produced child porn on school grounds, before distributing it on the dark web'
- Prince Harry's memoir Spare beaten in every category it was nominated for at British Book Awards
- RICHARD KAY: She's only been dating Peter Phillips for a month but has already met the Queen. So will Harriet be the first NHS nurse to marry into the Royal Family?
- Prince Harry and Meghan Markle hint there are more quasi-royal African tours in the pipeline as they thank Nigeria for 'the first of many memorable trips'
- World's biggest porn star Angela White reveals the risque scenes that earn her the most money
- Aussie dad could face life in Bali's most feared jail after allegedly being caught with meth - as new details about what happened leading up to his arrest
- Birthday tea party horror as woman, 81, dies after being attacked with an axe while celebrating sister-in-law turning 75
- Moment furious travellers stage sit-down protest during row with a farmer as he tries to stop them moving on to his land a MONTH before the Appleby Horse Fair
- Revealed: TikTokker Ava Louise who claims she flashed her breasts at NYC's livestream portal to Dublin because she wanted to show them her 'two New York home grown potatoes'
- King Charles unveils red, fiery painting of himself as his first post-Coronation portrait by artist Jonathan Yeo who included butterfly to capture his 'metamorphosis from Prince to King'
- Florida cops seize 'boat of interest' that may have struck and killed ballerina Ella Riley Adler, 15, while she was waterskiing in Miami
- Navy surgeon who operated on 12-year-old's penis without consent while carrying out hernia procedure because it 'didn't look normal' is suspended for six months
- BUDGET 2024: A $300 boost for every Aussie, student debt wiped, tax cuts for millions and major change for overseas travellers: Albanese government hands down latest Budget
- E-Mersion Media collapses: Brutal way staff were notified they were sacked after Melbourne-based startup entered liquidation
- Oklahoma teen Noah Presgrove's full autopsy after he was found dead on a highway wearing only a pair of shoes
- FBI opens investigation into Mica Miller's shock 'suicide' after bombshell daily journals emerge as heat is turned up on her 'abusive' pastor husband who threatened to 'attack and cause pain'
- Magnitude 3.0 earthquake rocks Burra: South Australian residents report feeling their homes shake
- Man arrested over death of ice hockey player Adam Johnson, 29, whose neck was slashed during a game in front of 8,000 fans at Sheffield's Utilita Arena is re-bailed a third time
- This is what happens when you mug the wrong guy! Moment thug is punched by man after he yanked chain off his victim's neck in London Piccadilly Circus
- Former Jetstar pilot Greg Lynn's side of the story is heard for the first time as he stands trial for the alleged murders of two campers in remote wilderness
- Melbourne mum loses it at $280 item found in Salvation Army op shop
- Popular milk Almond Breeze to disappear from Coles and Woolworths
- Instant karma: Sex attacker tries to grope female train passenger… and then loses his arm when tram hits him during scuffle with crowd who came to the victim's aid in Germany
- Berkshire woman, 31, who battered crocodile that dragged her sister under water is first person to get King's bravery medal from Charles: Hero saved her twin from horrific Mexican holiday attack but was badly wounded herself
- Top banker's cross-dressing son, 19, is arrested in Bahamas for groping woman at $90k-a-year members-only club before her husband slapped him
- New York City portal descends into utter chaos as OnlyFans model flashes breasts at Dublin - while Irishman is seen sniffing powder through the screen
- Ella Riley Adler's father pays moving tribute to his ballerina daughter, 15, who was killed in hit-and-run boat crash telling funeral mourners: 'Mommy and I said you got the best of us' as authorities offer $20,000 reward to find killer
- Footballer, 33, 'raped sleeping woman' before sending intimate photographs of her to teammates asking: 'Anyone want a go?', court hears
- NINETEEN EU countries demand the right to introduce Rwanda-style deportation schemes amid signs the UK's new law is already having a deterrent effect
- Archewell 'delinquency' row descends into blame game: Sussex sources now insist missing cheque WAS received by US state officials but just not processed in time - after foundation was banned from raising or spending money
- Terrifying moment masked gunmen ambush prison van at French tollbooth, shoot dead two guards and free 'narco boss' dubbed 'The Fly' before going on the run
- Florida bus crash leaves at least eight dead and 45 injured after vehicle carrying 53 migrant workers to watermelon farm overturns
- Balmoral beef: King Charles strips his mother's favourite butcher of a treasured royal warrant... but was it because of their non-organic meat?
- Untold story of the day Ronald Reagan was shot: Unearthed tapes reveal White House chaos as President lay unconscious, Soviet nuclear subs neared DC... and there was no one in control
- Piers Morgan slams Netflix for 'failing in their duty of care' to Baby Reindeer's 'real-life Martha' - after facing backlash for his own interview
Climate change is a natural event. Installing a 20...
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