In pictures: Storm Aileen batters Britain with 75mph winds
The first-named storm of the year has hit with full force, as Aileen swept through the UK last night.
With rainfall up to 35.44mm and high winds of 83mph, thousands have been left without power and travel has been disrupted across the country.
Met Office forecaster Emma Sharples said: “That’s quite a high total, especially in September. The wind speeds as well – it’s probably a bit unusual to get that sort of strength of winds at this time of the year. You’d normally expect that in October or November.”
The north saw more problems than the south, and Northern Powergrid – which covers north-east, Yorkshire and Lincolnshire – said an estimated 7,400 homes had lost power last night. Although many have been restored, 800 are still without.
The west of the country was also affected, and 1,067 homes were also left without power overnight. 256 houses in Buxton, Macclesfield and Leigh were still waiting to be reconnected, according to provider Electricity North West.
Highways England have urged lorries, caravans and motorbikes to take extra precautions if driving through the heavy conditions and also advised motorists to check the weather before starting out.
A spokesman said: “Road users in all regions are being advised to check the weather forecast and road conditions before they travel. Leave extra time if travel conditions are poor and delay the journey if the weather is too severe.”
Torrential rain and winds leave thousands without power and cause nationwide commuter delays
Storm Aileen brings flying debris to the UK and leaves thousands without power
UK weather latest: Areas across Britain face flooding and power cuts