Storm Bert to unleash hell with 70mph winds as snow and ice causes highway mayhem

Torrential rain, snow blizzards and 70mph winds are set to batter Britain as weather forecasters warn people to
beware of incoming Storm Bert.

The second named storm of 2024 is set to strike this weekend with worrying warnings of floods and impassable areas in the coming days.

Brits have been told to brace themselves for heavy rain, strong winds and blizzards.

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The Met Office issued warnings across all of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Northern England, the Midlands and South West of England are also on alert.

Forecasters have warned rural communities may be cut off, with traffic delays and impassable roads leaving passengers and vehicles stranded.

A 70mph wind alert has been issued for many coastal areas, while up to five inches of rain could fall in some parts.

Met Office meteorologist Dan Holley said: “Heavy snowfall is expected across parts of northern England and Scotland for a time on Saturday, especially over higher ground, and warnings are in place.

According to Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Dan Holley: “Storm Bert marks a shift to much milder air and wintry hazards will gradually diminish through the weekend, but heavy snowfall is expected across parts of northern England and Scotland for a time on Saturday, especially over higher ground, and warnings are in place.”

He added: “Heavy rain through Saturday and Sunday, especially in southern and western parts of the UK, will also bring impacts for some with a number of warnings in place. We expect 50-75 mm of rainfall quite widely within the warning areas, but in excess of 100 mm is possible over high ground in parts of Wales and southwest England.”

Alice Simpson, a spokesperson for RAC Breakdown, said: “The first taste of winter means drivers are suddenly contending with some of the worst road conditions we’ve seen all year. With freezing temperatures already causing disruption in the east and north of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and snow showers now affecting regions further south, we advise motorists to plan well as ice forms on untreated surfaces.”