Storm Jocelyn Forces Cancellation of Flights and Suspension of Trains As Onslaught Continues

As Storm Jocelyn continues its onslaught on the UK, significant disruptions are unfolding, with flights cancelled, trains suspended, and severe weather conditions predicted to persist. The Met Office warns that the worst is yet to come, anticipating the storm’s peak during the early hours of Wednesday. The aftermath of Storm Isha, which left two fatalities and numerous challenges, sets the stage for further impact from Storm Jocelyn.

Transportation Disruptions:

• Eight flights at Dublin Airport and four at Glasgow Airport were cancelled on Tuesday evening.
• Train services in Scotland were suspended from 7 pm, and drivers were advised to postpone journeys.
• Various road closures, including the M48 Severn Bridge, A66 in County Durham and Cumbria, Humber Bridge, A19 Tees Flyover, and Woodhead Pass in Derbyshire and South Yorkshire, affecting high-sided vehicles.
• In Scotland, the A76 was closed between Skelmorlie and Largs due to water breaking over the sea wall.

Search and Rescue Operations:

• A search is underway at Porthcawl, south Wales, following reports of a person in the sea.
• HM Coastguard, along with rescue teams and lifeboats, is engaged in the search in coordination with RNLI.

Weather Forecast:

• The strongest winds, reaching up to 80mph, are expected between 3 am and 7 am on Wednesday, with gradual easing throughout the day.
• Amber and yellow weather warnings for wind cover much of the UK, accompanied by yellow warnings for rain in specific regions, and a yellow warning for ice in northern and eastern parts of Scotland.
• Wind gusts of 55-65mph in north-western Scotland and potential gusts of 75-80mph in exposed areas of the Western Isles and coastal north-west Scotland are anticipated.

Impact and Clean-Up Efforts:

• Thousands experience power cuts, and flooding affects parts of York.
• Ongoing clean-up from Storm Isha is challenged as Storm Jocelyn poses the risk of further disruption.
• Martin Thomson, national operations manager for resilience at Transport Scotland, anticipates more delays and cancellations across ferries, flights, and rail services from Tuesday into Wednesday morning.

Advice for Residents and Travelers:

• Residents are urged to secure garden furniture and equipment due to high winds.
• Drivers are cautioned about challenging road conditions, reduced visibility, and increased stopping distances, especially in northern regions.
• Rail services to and from Scotland are expected to be suspended until at least noon on Wednesday.

As the nation grapples with the dual impact of Storm Isha and Storm Jocelyn, vigilance, postponing unnecessary travel, and adhering to safety precautions are crucial for individuals and communities alike. The resilience of emergency services and the public will be pivotal in navigating through this challenging weather period.