Storm Bert: A Significant Weather Event in November 2024
Storm Bert, the second named storm of the 2024/2025 storm season, has brought widespread disruption across parts of Ireland and the UK from November 22 to 24, 2024. This intense low-pressure system has generated severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding, and travel disruptions. Here, we explore the storm’s impacts, meteorological background, and safety measures.
Meteorological Overview
Storm Bert formed as a low-pressure system in the Atlantic and gained strength as it moved towards Ireland and the UK. It displaced cold Arctic air, introducing milder but very wet and windy conditions. Rainfall totals exceeded 60mm in 24 hours in some regions, especially in the southwest and mountainous areas. Winds reached gusts of up to 67 mph, prompting status orange and yellow warnings in affected areas. The heavy rainfall, combined with snowmelt from preceding days, exacerbated flooding risks in both urban and rural catchments.
Impact on Communities
The storm caused severe disruptions:
- Flooding: Urban areas and small river catchments faced extensive flooding due to waterlogged soils and high river levels. Notably, parts of the West Country in the UK and the west of Ireland were heavily affected. Floodwaters damaged homes, businesses, and infrastructure, necessitating emergency responses
- Power Outages: Over 3,000 homes in the southwest of the UK were left without power due to fallen trees and wind damage. Restoration efforts by utility companies were complicated by persistent hazardous conditions
- Travel Disruptions: Roads were closed across the region due to flooding, fallen trees, and accidents. In the UK, sections of motorways such as the M4 and M5 experienced partial closures. Rail services were also impacted, with delays and cancellations affecting routes between Exeter and London.
- Safety Concerns: Emergency services, including animal welfare organizations, issued warnings to the public about safety risks. The RSPCA advised livestock owners to prepare for rising floodwaters, while local authorities urged residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
Precautionary Measures and Safety
Authorities have stressed the importance of preparedness during extreme weather events like Storm Bert. Key safety recommendations included:
- Regularly checking weather updates and warnings via official channels like Met Éireann and the UK Met Office.
- Avoiding flooded areas and not attempting to drive through standing water.
- Ensuring adequate supplies of food, water, and emergency essentials at home.
- Staying in contact with local authorities for evacuation plans and guidance
Looking Ahead
Storm Bert underscores the growing challenges posed by extreme weather events, likely exacerbated by climate change. While immediate recovery efforts are underway, the long-term need for resilient infrastructure and robust emergency preparedness remains critical.
As the storm subsides, meteorologists continue to monitor conditions, and further advisories may be issued. Those in affected regions are urged to remain vigilant and follow official guidance to ensure safety.
