The UK is still grappling with significant disturbances caused by Storm Henk, leading to a challenging and unpleasant return to work
Today marks the return to the office for numerous employees, but Storm Henk is exacerbating the challenges.
This morning, commuters can expect further transportation disruptions due to continued strong winds and heavy rainfall, all while the cleanup efforts persist.
Train services have suffered from fallen trees, damage to trains and stations, flooding, and power outages. Greater Anglia has cautioned against travel in areas such as Norwich, Colchester, Peterborough, and Cambridge. South Western Railway anticipates ongoing disruptions throughout the day.
Great Northern Rail alerts travelers about delays between Cambridge and Ely as well as Kings Lynn until 10 am due to damaged overhead wires.
Southern Rail is conducting repairs between Uckfield, Buxted, and Crowborough. Great Western Railway reports severe flooding issues between Swindon and Bristol Parkway, with likely problems throughout the entire day.
In Wales & Borders, flooding is impacting railway services, particularly on the Heart of Wales line and west of Carmarthen, leading to suspensions for the day. Travelers on the London Paddington to South Wales route should expect diversions adding approximately 40 minutes to their journeys. Flooding has also blocked the route between Liskeard and Looe, resulting in some closures between Totnes and Plymouth.
Furthermore, road travelers are not spared from disruptions, as the A52 in Nottinghamshire is closed in both directions due to flooding. Sections of the A1 and A21 are also shut down.
With over 300 flood alerts across the UK, including severe warnings indicating danger to life, such as the one on the River Nene in Northampton around the Billing Aquadrome and nearby business parks, the impact is widespread. Many homes in Loughborough have been flooded, leading to road closures for rescue operations.
These challenges come after a woman was injured by a falling tree during the countrywide winds reaching speeds of up to 94mph, prompting warnings for people to stay indoors.