Flights across the UK have been cancelled as Storm Lilian sweeps through the country, causing widespread travel disruption. The storm, bringing winds of up to 80mph, is affecting parts of England and Wales, leading to flight delays and cancellations. British Airways has grounded several flights from Heathrow, including international journeys to Italy, Switzerland, and the US, as well as domestic flights to Scotland and Northern Ireland. The airline has apologised to passengers for the inconvenience caused by the adverse weather conditions.
In addition to flight disruptions, drivers are urged to exercise caution on the roads as Storm Lilian poses risks of power cuts, flooding, and dangerous conditions near coastal areas. The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for rain in South East England and for strong winds in northern England and north Wales. The storm is expected to bring gusts of 50-60mph in the affected regions, creating potentially hazardous driving conditions.
The RAC estimates a high number of leisure trips by car over the weekend, with millions of drivers expected on the roads. Motorists are advised to avoid exposed areas and be vigilant for fallen branches or trees. The severe weather has already led to the closure of the M48 Severn Bridge in Gloucestershire due to strong winds.
Despite the disruptions caused by Storm Lilian, forecasters predict that the storm’s intensity will decrease as it moves towards the North Sea. Showers are expected to persist in some regions, with settled conditions developing in southern and eastern England and Wales. However, the North and North West may continue to experience unsettled weather with rain showers.
As Lilian marks the 12th named storm of the season, this exceptional weather event has prompted warnings and precautions to ensure public safety. The storm serves as a reminder for residents and travellers to stay informed and prepared for extreme weather conditions. Stay updated on the latest weather advisories and travel alerts to navigate potential challenges posed by Storm Lilian.