Storm Barney: Homes without power after storm batters region

There was heavy rainfall in Northern Ireland, Wales and north-west England and strong winds could disrupt flights from Heathrow and Gatwick airports, as well as hitting other types of transport. Outbreaks of rain across southern parts of Scotland today are linked with Barney, but Met Office forecasters say the storm’s most devastating effects will not be felt north of the border.

Gales of up to 80mph could batter the country with widespread gust of between 50 and 60mph this evening.

The second United Kingdom storm to have its own name is forecast to bring winds of up to 75mph to the south of England, as well as Ireland and Wales through Tuesday night.

Barney comes hard on the heels of Abigail, the UK’s first ever named storm, which left thousands of homes without power and schools closed in parts of Scotland.

A Met Office spokesman said: “Further rain is expected on Tuesday as a frontal system runs across the United Kingdom from the west. The largest accumulations are expected across the hills of northwest England and northwest Wales though low lying areas will also see a period of heavy rain”.

A weather warning was issued by the Met Office for strong gusting winds across Sussex from 3pm until midnight.

They warned: “Please be aware of possible hard driving conditions and the potential for minor travel disruption due to surface water flooding”.

AccuWeather meteorologists are predicting up to two inches of rain may fall in a few areas.

However many other flood warnings across the region have been lifted.

The British government is urging residents seeking the flawless piece of personal photography to refrain from taking “storm selfies” in Storm Barney.