Heavy storm Floris triggers severe 'life-threatening' alert, with winds reaching 85 mph predicted to create havoc on air travel, railway services, and road networks within SHORT PERIODS
On August 4, 2025, Storm Floris made landfall in the northern parts of the UK, including Scotland, Northern Ireland, North Wales, and the North of England. The storm brought intense rainfall and severe winds, causing significant transport disruptions and flooding.
The Met Office issued an amber weather warning for much of Scotland and yellow warnings for parts of Northern Ireland and northern England, highlighting the risk of strong winds (50-90 mph, especially in exposed areas) and heavy rainfall (20-80mm). The unusually strong August winds caused more falling trees since leaves are still on branches, increasing hazards on roads and railway lines.
The storm's impacts peaked on August 4, with the amber alert expiring late that evening. By the early hours of August 5, the storm moved northeast, and conditions began improving, though some unsettled weather persisted.
The Scottish Transport Secretary has said the unseasonable weather makes raising awareness even more important. Across the warning area, many inland areas are likely to see gusts of 40-50mph, with 60-70mph more likely at higher elevations and around exposed coasts in Scotland. Gusts of up to 85mph are expected on exposed coasts or hills north of the border.
Airports likely faced operational challenges due to wind and rain, causing flight delays or cancellations, although precise flight disruption details are not explicitly stated in the sources. Train services were expected to be disrupted by fallen trees and debris blocking tracks, with emergency services warning of prolonged travel disruptions. Road networks across the affected regions experienced blockages and hazards from fallen trees and flooding, making travel difficult and risky.
The RAC breakdown service has advised drivers in the north and west of the UK to take extra care due to the stormy weather. Drivers are urged to slow down in poor weather and avoid exposed Highland and coastal routes. The AA has advised checking the latest forecast, allowing extra time, and being prepared for the unexpected.
Traffic Scotland, Police Scotland, Sepa, local authorities, and others will communicate any closures to the public and provide real-time updates. Network Rail has warned of disruption to trains due to the weather. Drivers towing trailers and caravans, as well as those with roof and tent boxes, must ensure their loads are properly secured.
Storm Floris is the sixth named storm of the 2024-25 naming season. There remains some uncertainty in the depth and track of Floris, and winds will first ease in the west during later Monday but will remain very strong overnight until early Tuesday in the east. Heavy rain may also contribute to the disruption in places.
Cancellations to ferry services are likely, with Scottish ferry operator CalMac issuing a series of cancellation warnings ahead of the storm. Scottish Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop has held a meeting to ensure the country is ready for the storm.
The warning zone for Storm Floris covers Scotland, parts of Northern Ireland, North Wales, and the north of England. The Met Office has warned of potential travel disruption when Storm Floris hits. The storm's severity and timing were unusual, posing increased risks given the outdoor holiday activity at this time of year.
- The Met Office has warned of strong winds (up to 85mph in exposed areas) and heavy rainfall (likely gusts of 40-50mph in inland areas, with stronger winds in Scotland and exposed coastal areas) with Storm Floris, highlighting the potential for significant travel disruptions.
- Across the warning area, drivers are advised to slow down in poor weather, avoid exposed routes, and ensure their loads are properly secured due to the risk of fallen trees and flooding associated with Storm Floris.
