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Storm Frank: further floods expected as gales and rain batter British Isles – live Storm Frank: further floods expected as gales and rain batter British Isles – live
(35 minutes later)
11.59am GMT11:59
David Barnett
Jon Ronson, Ian Rankin and other authors have joined efforts to help a bookshop badly hit by the floods that have swept the north of England. The Book Case in the West Yorkshire town of Hebden Bridge was one of the businesses in the town wrecked when the town was hit by the severe rain battering the region.
Sam Missingham, head of events at publisher HarperCollins, and Yorkshire-based husband-and-wife author team Bob and Carol Bridgestock, who write crime fiction as RC Bridgestock, have been lobbying authors to provide signed copies of their books to sell in an auction to raise funds for the Book Case – and among those who responded to the call are romance author Marian Keyes, Rebus author Ian Rankin and journalist Jon Ronson.
Related: Leading authors join drive to help flood-hit Yorkshire bookshop
11.56am GMT11:56
11.51am GMT11:51
Ben Quinn
A council leader in one of the areas worst hit by flooding has renewed his claims that the Treasury “stone-walled” the release of emergency funds to help the north of England in a recent Cobra meeting, writes Ben Quinn. Here is an extract.
Richard Farrell, the leader Rochdale Council in Greater Manchester, claimed a row between the Treasury and the Department for Communities Local Government in a recent Downing Street crisis meeting delayed help being sent to the region.
He told the Guardian on Wednesday: “A senior local government official in Greater Manchester took part in a conference call of the Cobra committee and he was astounded at the argument between department of local government ministers who wanted to get immediate help to flood affected areas in Yorkshire and places like Rochdale, and the Treasury saying: ‘no, you can’t do that.. there is a process that has to be followed’.”
The Treasury official blocked any immediate help from being given. From Boxing Day we had been on to the DCLG to ask if we could go ahead with the scheme that was in place in Cumbria, and they were not able to sanction that, so we then started issuing £500 immediate emergency relief for householders, because some people had nothing but the clothes on their back after escaping from houses and needed cash help. It took the government four days after the floods to sanction those payments, so we took a risk getting those payments out immediately. They will now be covered, but the time it took the DCLG was four days of hell for people.”
The Treasury has flatly denied the suggestion on Chancellor George Osborne’s department had been delaying payments to local authorities.
A spokeswoman said: “These claims are completely untrue. The Treasury made clear days ago that it stands ready to provide equivalent support to that offered in previous floods, and to do so as quickly as possible. Indeed the first tranche of payments is being made to local authorities in affected areas today.”
Updated at 11.52am GMT
11.38am GMT11:3811.38am GMT11:38
Helen PiddHelen Pidd
The Guardian’s North of England editor is at a waterlogged rugby club in Cumbria and sends this report.The Guardian’s North of England editor is at a waterlogged rugby club in Cumbria and sends this report.
Keswick was open for business on Wednesday morning but locals were glum at the prospect of yet more flooding, just three weeks after Storm Desmond devastated the town. Up to 500 properties were flooded out in Keswick and nearby Braithwaite following record rainfall in early December.Keswick was open for business on Wednesday morning but locals were glum at the prospect of yet more flooding, just three weeks after Storm Desmond devastated the town. Up to 500 properties were flooded out in Keswick and nearby Braithwaite following record rainfall in early December.
At the rugby club near Derwentwater, volunteers had just finished repainting the club house ready for the annual new year’s day match against Penrith. “I don’t think there will be any rugby played this year,” said Iain Macpherson, the house and grounds manager, as he watched the pitch turn into a lake on Wednesday morning in the space of an hour.At the rugby club near Derwentwater, volunteers had just finished repainting the club house ready for the annual new year’s day match against Penrith. “I don’t think there will be any rugby played this year,” said Iain Macpherson, the house and grounds manager, as he watched the pitch turn into a lake on Wednesday morning in the space of an hour.
Earlier in the month the club was inundated with more than a metre of water, which destroyed the floors, the electrics, the kitchen and kit including 300 rugby shirts. Mould now covers the ceiling of the two squash courts, the dumb bells in the gym rusty after their mucky submersion. Volunteers have spent the past three weeks shifting at least 1,100 tonnes of silt from the pitch, deposited unhelpfully by the river Greta when it breached its banks and rose above expensively installed flood defences.Earlier in the month the club was inundated with more than a metre of water, which destroyed the floors, the electrics, the kitchen and kit including 300 rugby shirts. Mould now covers the ceiling of the two squash courts, the dumb bells in the gym rusty after their mucky submersion. Volunteers have spent the past three weeks shifting at least 1,100 tonnes of silt from the pitch, deposited unhelpfully by the river Greta when it breached its banks and rose above expensively installed flood defences.
“If the water comes in today that will be the third time in a month,” said Macpherson. “After the big flood at the start of the month, we had another smaller one, where a foot of water got in.”“If the water comes in today that will be the third time in a month,” said Macpherson. “After the big flood at the start of the month, we had another smaller one, where a foot of water got in.”
On Wednesday fitters from the brewery, Jennings, were in putting the finishing touches to the new bar, as water from the pitch rose and lapped dangerously close to the club house.On Wednesday fitters from the brewery, Jennings, were in putting the finishing touches to the new bar, as water from the pitch rose and lapped dangerously close to the club house.
“The New Year’s Day match is a big money spinner for us, so we need the event to go ahead,” said Macpherson.“The New Year’s Day match is a big money spinner for us, so we need the event to go ahead,” said Macpherson.
The show would go on, he vowed: “Even if people are standing drinking pints in one, two-feet of water, they’ll be here.”The show would go on, he vowed: “Even if people are standing drinking pints in one, two-feet of water, they’ll be here.”
“As long as our mouths are above water, there will be drinking,” promised Richard Atkinson, a committee member, suggesting to another man that they switch from rugby to rowing.“As long as our mouths are above water, there will be drinking,” promised Richard Atkinson, a committee member, suggesting to another man that they switch from rugby to rowing.
Updated at 11.47am GMT
11.06am GMT11:0611.06am GMT11:06
Libby BrooksLibby Brooks
As of 10.30am, there are now 71 flood warnings (where flooding is expected and immediate action required) in Scotland.As of 10.30am, there are now 71 flood warnings (where flooding is expected and immediate action required) in Scotland.
About 300 homes are currently being evacuated in Hawick in the Borders, and the local council is considering similar action in nearby Peebles. In Newton Stewart, Dumfries and Galloway, where residents were evacuated overnight, the river Cree has now burst its banks with flooding affecting a number of waterfront propertiesAbout 300 homes are currently being evacuated in Hawick in the Borders, and the local council is considering similar action in nearby Peebles. In Newton Stewart, Dumfries and Galloway, where residents were evacuated overnight, the river Cree has now burst its banks with flooding affecting a number of waterfront properties
Meanwhile, a number of roads have been closed due to landslips, with 40 to 50 tonnes of debris reported on A83 Rest and Be Thankful road and the A85 Glen Ogle, Stirlingshire are also shut. There are reports of major flooding to the west of Glasgow, in Greenock and Port Glasgow, as well in parts of Ayrshire.Meanwhile, a number of roads have been closed due to landslips, with 40 to 50 tonnes of debris reported on A83 Rest and Be Thankful road and the A85 Glen Ogle, Stirlingshire are also shut. There are reports of major flooding to the west of Glasgow, in Greenock and Port Glasgow, as well in parts of Ayrshire.
Updated at 11.38am GMTUpdated at 11.38am GMT
10.52am GMT10:5210.52am GMT10:52
The EA now has three severe flood warnings (danger to life), all for Croston, Lancashire. There are also 46 flood warnings (flooding expected, immediate action required.The EA now has three severe flood warnings (danger to life), all for Croston, Lancashire. There are also 46 flood warnings (flooding expected, immediate action required.
10:30 update.3 severe,46 warnings & 75 alerts in England. Get latest #flood info https://t.co/BpUpnj1mdd #StormFrank pic.twitter.com/qM8bMyTr0410:30 update.3 severe,46 warnings & 75 alerts in England. Get latest #flood info https://t.co/BpUpnj1mdd #StormFrank pic.twitter.com/qM8bMyTr04
10.45am GMT10:4510.45am GMT10:45
Damien GayleDamien Gayle
Fresh from his sunshine holiday in Barbados, the chairman of the Environment Agency had little time to gather his things this morning before heading to meet flood victims in England’s sodden north.Fresh from his sunshine holiday in Barbados, the chairman of the Environment Agency had little time to gather his things this morning before heading to meet flood victims in England’s sodden north.
Sir Philip Dilley spent less than an hour with an aide collecting a few personal items from his flat in an Edwardian mansion block in Marylebone, London, amid fury that he was sunning himself while thousands of Britons fought floods.Sir Philip Dilley spent less than an hour with an aide collecting a few personal items from his flat in an Edwardian mansion block in Marylebone, London, amid fury that he was sunning himself while thousands of Britons fought floods.
Asked if he had a good Christmas, the 60-year-old - who was described by the Press Association as noticeably tanned - dodged the question. Instead he told reporters he was on his way to visit Yorkshire and would be “very happy to speak” with people when he got there.Asked if he had a good Christmas, the 60-year-old - who was described by the Press Association as noticeably tanned - dodged the question. Instead he told reporters he was on his way to visit Yorkshire and would be “very happy to speak” with people when he got there.
A former executive chairman of the engineering consultancy Arup, Dilley now earns £100,000 a year for working two to three days a week with the government. Shortly after becoming chair in September, he promised to visit any serious flooding in the UK while he was at the helm.A former executive chairman of the engineering consultancy Arup, Dilley now earns £100,000 a year for working two to three days a week with the government. Shortly after becoming chair in September, he promised to visit any serious flooding in the UK while he was at the helm.
Asked if he should have visited the worst affected areas sooner, he said: “Well I’m going up there today, as you appreciate. My focus really is to go and see what’s happening, to see the good work that’s been going on but most importantly to see the communities who have been affected.”Asked if he should have visited the worst affected areas sooner, he said: “Well I’m going up there today, as you appreciate. My focus really is to go and see what’s happening, to see the good work that’s been going on but most importantly to see the communities who have been affected.”
He insisted he had been “in very close contact” with senior EA staff throughout his break, spent at his holiday home. Pictures showed the property, near the five-star Sandy Lane resort, basking under blue skies and surrounded by verdant, tropical foliage.He insisted he had been “in very close contact” with senior EA staff throughout his break, spent at his holiday home. Pictures showed the property, near the five-star Sandy Lane resort, basking under blue skies and surrounded by verdant, tropical foliage.
Dilley’s return to the UK comes after criticism over his decision to holiday in Barbados at a time when the country faces some of the worst floods it has experienced in decades. He had previously told MPs he would work “six days a week or seven” in times of crisis.Dilley’s return to the UK comes after criticism over his decision to holiday in Barbados at a time when the country faces some of the worst floods it has experienced in decades. He had previously told MPs he would work “six days a week or seven” in times of crisis.
Updated at 11.40am GMT
10.28am GMT10:2810.28am GMT10:28
Keswick rugby club - waterlogged.Keswick rugby club - waterlogged.
Keswick rugby club - usually glorious views of Skiddaw in the background. Today, again, a lake. https://t.co/fHBlWxF4SGKeswick rugby club - usually glorious views of Skiddaw in the background. Today, again, a lake. https://t.co/fHBlWxF4SG
10.11am GMT10:1110.11am GMT10:11
The Met Office has this satellite animation of Storm Frank.The Met Office has this satellite animation of Storm Frank.
Satellite animation showing #StormFrank. Stay #WeatherAware with the latest warning info at https://t.co/ziqeF8z3D4 https://t.co/eYnEtIPcLPSatellite animation showing #StormFrank. Stay #WeatherAware with the latest warning info at https://t.co/ziqeF8z3D4 https://t.co/eYnEtIPcLP
9.57am GMT09:579.57am GMT09:57
Environment head to meet flood victimsEnvironment head to meet flood victims
Sir Philip Dilley, the head of the Environment Agency, is due to meet people affected by the floods today. He had been under fire for holidaying in Barbados, while communities in York and elsewhere were cleaning up after the Boxing Day floods. This is from the Press Association.Sir Philip Dilley, the head of the Environment Agency, is due to meet people affected by the floods today. He had been under fire for holidaying in Barbados, while communities in York and elsewhere were cleaning up after the Boxing Day floods. This is from the Press Association.
Dilley spoke briefly to reporters as he collected a few personal items from his flat in an Edwardian mansion block in the Marylebone area of London.Dilley spoke briefly to reporters as he collected a few personal items from his flat in an Edwardian mansion block in the Marylebone area of London.
Asked if he had a good Christmas, while swathes of the country were battling against devastating flood waters, Dilley said he was visiting Yorkshire today and would be “very happy to speak” with people when he got there.Asked if he had a good Christmas, while swathes of the country were battling against devastating flood waters, Dilley said he was visiting Yorkshire today and would be “very happy to speak” with people when he got there.
His return to the UK comes after criticism over his decision to holiday in Barbados at a time when the country faces some of the worst floods it has experienced in decades.His return to the UK comes after criticism over his decision to holiday in Barbados at a time when the country faces some of the worst floods it has experienced in decades.
The Environment Agency released a statement saying he had spent Christmas with his family on the Caribbean island, but would be back soon.The Environment Agency released a statement saying he had spent Christmas with his family on the Caribbean island, but would be back soon.
A spokesman said Dilley had been in “regular contact” with the body regarding its response to the current situation. He added: “He has been in Barbados with his family. We are expecting him back in the UK in the next 24 hours and an early priority will be to visit those who have been affected by the flooding in the north of the country.”A spokesman said Dilley had been in “regular contact” with the body regarding its response to the current situation. He added: “He has been in Barbados with his family. We are expecting him back in the UK in the next 24 hours and an early priority will be to visit those who have been affected by the flooding in the north of the country.”
Updated at 10.08am GMTUpdated at 10.08am GMT
9.49am GMT09:499.49am GMT09:49
The authorities n Keswick, Cumbria, are getting ready for possible flooding.The authorities n Keswick, Cumbria, are getting ready for possible flooding.
The River Greta in Keswick is rising. Council has set up a pump on Penrith Road in case it floods. https://t.co/F8bB4J9KbAThe River Greta in Keswick is rising. Council has set up a pump on Penrith Road in case it floods. https://t.co/F8bB4J9KbA
9.44am GMT09:449.44am GMT09:44
The Environment Agency has four severe flood warnings (danger to life) - one for the north-east (the river Wharfe at Tadcaster) and three for the north-west (the river Yarrow and three areas of Croston).The Environment Agency has four severe flood warnings (danger to life) - one for the north-east (the river Wharfe at Tadcaster) and three for the north-west (the river Yarrow and three areas of Croston).
9.37am GMT09:379.37am GMT09:37
Kevin RawlinsonKevin Rawlinson
This shows the worst flood warnings in the York and Tadcaster area.This shows the worst flood warnings in the York and Tadcaster area.
9.32am GMT09:329.32am GMT09:32
Henry McDonaldHenry McDonald
Nine thousand homes are without power in Northern Ireland after Storm Frank felled trees and knocked out power lines overnight in counties Fermanagh and Down.Nine thousand homes are without power in Northern Ireland after Storm Frank felled trees and knocked out power lines overnight in counties Fermanagh and Down.
Gales of up to almost 80 mph were so strong that at least four passenger planes were left stranded on the tarmac of Belfast International Airport’s runway for hours. Conditions were so bad at the airport that ground crews were unable to attend to one plane that had landed from Gatwick last night and passengers were left waiting to disembark for four hours.Gales of up to almost 80 mph were so strong that at least four passenger planes were left stranded on the tarmac of Belfast International Airport’s runway for hours. Conditions were so bad at the airport that ground crews were unable to attend to one plane that had landed from Gatwick last night and passengers were left waiting to disembark for four hours.
Defending their decision to keep passengers on the plane for so long Brian Carlin, commercial director at Belfast International Airport, said the wind speed was higher than the limit for opening the aircraft doors safely.Defending their decision to keep passengers on the plane for so long Brian Carlin, commercial director at Belfast International Airport, said the wind speed was higher than the limit for opening the aircraft doors safely.
“You have to put the steps out, and when the wind’s blowing around that’s very difficult to do,” he added. “We’ve taken one diversion from City, we’ve taken one from Dublin and we’ve also sent one to Dublin. It just depends where the high winds are at that time as to whether someone can get in or not.”“You have to put the steps out, and when the wind’s blowing around that’s very difficult to do,” he added. “We’ve taken one diversion from City, we’ve taken one from Dublin and we’ve also sent one to Dublin. It just depends where the high winds are at that time as to whether someone can get in or not.”
He said the disruption would have a knock-on effect on other departures and urged travellers to check before leaving home.He said the disruption would have a knock-on effect on other departures and urged travellers to check before leaving home.
The winds even felled the Christmas tree in the centre of the Co.Down coastal village of Portaferry. At least 20 trees across the region were lying this morning along rural roads while bridges across the river Foyle in Derry have been closed to pedestrians.The winds even felled the Christmas tree in the centre of the Co.Down coastal village of Portaferry. At least 20 trees across the region were lying this morning along rural roads while bridges across the river Foyle in Derry have been closed to pedestrians.
Meanwhile almost 4,000 homes were without power in the Irish Republic as trees also knocked down power lines in the south and west of the country where there is also widespread flooding particularly in Co.Cork.Meanwhile almost 4,000 homes were without power in the Irish Republic as trees also knocked down power lines in the south and west of the country where there is also widespread flooding particularly in Co.Cork.
Most ferries between Britain and the Republic have been cancelled today with Met Eireann predicting a “sting in the tail” for a smaller storm hitting the Irish coast later today.Most ferries between Britain and the Republic have been cancelled today with Met Eireann predicting a “sting in the tail” for a smaller storm hitting the Irish coast later today.
Updated at 9.34am GMT Updated at 11.40am GMT
9.25am GMT09:259.25am GMT09:25
Many roads are closed in Shap, Cumbria, a region at risk of further flooding, after being hit twice in recent weeks.Many roads are closed in Shap, Cumbria, a region at risk of further flooding, after being hit twice in recent weeks.
Shap in Cumbria pretty minging today. Lots of road closures in place: bits of the a6, a5091 at Troutbeck. pic.twitter.com/Ktzl79NnJIShap in Cumbria pretty minging today. Lots of road closures in place: bits of the a6, a5091 at Troutbeck. pic.twitter.com/Ktzl79NnJI
9.18am GMT09:189.18am GMT09:18
The Irish Daily Mirror is reporting that up to 3,800 homes remain without power.The Irish Daily Mirror is reporting that up to 3,800 homes remain without power.
Storm Frank LIVE UPDATES as thousands still without power and roads flooded across the country #StormFrank https://t.co/ySUrSP0cq9Storm Frank LIVE UPDATES as thousands still without power and roads flooded across the country #StormFrank https://t.co/ySUrSP0cq9
In the north-east, more 1,000 homes are without electricity.In the north-east, more 1,000 homes are without electricity.
More than a thousand North-east homes remain without power https://t.co/wLSCbNJW8m #StormFrankMore than a thousand North-east homes remain without power https://t.co/wLSCbNJW8m #StormFrank
In Scotland, more than 5,000 homes are without power.In Scotland, more than 5,000 homes are without power.
More than 5,000 homes are without power in Scotland as gale-force winds and heavy rain from Storm Frank hit the countryMore than 5,000 homes are without power in Scotland as gale-force winds and heavy rain from Storm Frank hit the country
9.08am GMT09:089.08am GMT09:08
David Shukman, the BBC’s science editor, outlines the dilemmas confronting any government when it comes to allocating resources for flood defences. Here is an extract.David Shukman, the BBC’s science editor, outlines the dilemmas confronting any government when it comes to allocating resources for flood defences. Here is an extract.
At its simplest are decisions about the scale of government funding - whether the £2.3bn allocated by the government over a six-year period is enough and, crucially, where to spend the money.At its simplest are decisions about the scale of government funding - whether the £2.3bn allocated by the government over a six-year period is enough and, crucially, where to spend the money.
The longstanding Treasury rule is that for every £1 devoted to flood defence, there must be an economic benefit of at least £8 - a principle which is designed to make saving homes the priority. So cities, with their dense populations, will attract more than rural areas with fewer people, which is why London gets the best protection of all, and tiny villages the least.The longstanding Treasury rule is that for every £1 devoted to flood defence, there must be an economic benefit of at least £8 - a principle which is designed to make saving homes the priority. So cities, with their dense populations, will attract more than rural areas with fewer people, which is why London gets the best protection of all, and tiny villages the least.
To help places that might not qualify, the government encourages “partnership funding”, another source of cash from local authorities, business groups or communities - but raising it has never been easy. Last year in Norfolk, along a shoreline vulnerable to flooding, I sensed a lot of reluctance among local people to the idea of contributing towards the cost of their own defences.To help places that might not qualify, the government encourages “partnership funding”, another source of cash from local authorities, business groups or communities - but raising it has never been easy. Last year in Norfolk, along a shoreline vulnerable to flooding, I sensed a lot of reluctance among local people to the idea of contributing towards the cost of their own defences.
And if one place wins protection, other communities downstream will clamour for help too. The Jubilee River, an artificial channel, was dug to help Maidenhead and Windsor but has long been criticised by residents of Wraysbury who say it has made them more vulnerable to flooding.And if one place wins protection, other communities downstream will clamour for help too. The Jubilee River, an artificial channel, was dug to help Maidenhead and Windsor but has long been criticised by residents of Wraysbury who say it has made them more vulnerable to flooding.
The challenge is that flood defence can never be seen in isolation.The challenge is that flood defence can never be seen in isolation.
8.52am GMT08:528.52am GMT08:52
Tracking Storm Frank.Tracking Storm Frank.
Heavy rain and strong winds will move east today. Here's where it'll be at 9am and 3pm... pic.twitter.com/gGkUPgU0eGHeavy rain and strong winds will move east today. Here's where it'll be at 9am and 3pm... pic.twitter.com/gGkUPgU0eG
Meanwhile, it’s positively balmy at the North Pole.Meanwhile, it’s positively balmy at the North Pole.
Bit warm at the North Pole! Thanks to #StormFrank the temp is a very rare +1°C compared to the average -28°C... pic.twitter.com/pZi5y4kZCiBit warm at the North Pole! Thanks to #StormFrank the temp is a very rare +1°C compared to the average -28°C... pic.twitter.com/pZi5y4kZCi
8.46am GMT08:468.46am GMT08:46
Mark TranMark Tran
A senior UN official has urged governments to take more preventive action to reduce human and economic losses from weather-related disasters.A senior UN official has urged governments to take more preventive action to reduce human and economic losses from weather-related disasters.
“Prevention measures including upgrading early warning systems to deal with the new climate variability, revising building codes to ensure more resilience of critical infrastructure such as schools, hospital and roads, and more investment in flood defences are critical to protect more people against disaster impacts,” said Margareta Wahlström, head of the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR).“Prevention measures including upgrading early warning systems to deal with the new climate variability, revising building codes to ensure more resilience of critical infrastructure such as schools, hospital and roads, and more investment in flood defences are critical to protect more people against disaster impacts,” said Margareta Wahlström, head of the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR).
“We have no time to lose as weather-related disasters continue to increase, affecting millions of people.”“We have no time to lose as weather-related disasters continue to increase, affecting millions of people.”
The UN cited extreme tornadoes in the US over Christmas, abnormal snowfalls in Mexico, and heavy flooding in South America and the UK. Over the weekend, tornadoes and storms killed more than 20 people in New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri and Illinois, and flattened hundreds of buildings and houses. In Latin America the worst floods in the past 10 years, forced more than 170,000 people to evacuate in Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay.The UN cited extreme tornadoes in the US over Christmas, abnormal snowfalls in Mexico, and heavy flooding in South America and the UK. Over the weekend, tornadoes and storms killed more than 20 people in New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri and Illinois, and flattened hundreds of buildings and houses. In Latin America the worst floods in the past 10 years, forced more than 170,000 people to evacuate in Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay.
“More people are at risk due to increased urbanisation,” Wahlström said. “Reducing spatial density of single family housing and increasing the resilience of houses against heavier wind load can reduce tornado impacts.”“More people are at risk due to increased urbanisation,” Wahlström said. “Reducing spatial density of single family housing and increasing the resilience of houses against heavier wind load can reduce tornado impacts.”
“The abnormal flooding is consistent with the prediction made by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) last November. We cannot ignore science. Their findings need to be better included in long-term policies,” Wahlström added.“The abnormal flooding is consistent with the prediction made by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) last November. We cannot ignore science. Their findings need to be better included in long-term policies,” Wahlström added.
Last month, WMO warned that the majority of international climate outlook models indicated that the 2015-16 El Niño weather phenomenon was set to strengthen before the end of the year, causing more flooding and more droughts, setting it among the three strongest since 1950.Last month, WMO warned that the majority of international climate outlook models indicated that the 2015-16 El Niño weather phenomenon was set to strengthen before the end of the year, causing more flooding and more droughts, setting it among the three strongest since 1950.
“The repetitive floods in the UK and unusual snowstorms in Mexico are alerting the world about how difficult it is to predict global warming impacts and climate change,” Wahlström said.“The repetitive floods in the UK and unusual snowstorms in Mexico are alerting the world about how difficult it is to predict global warming impacts and climate change,” Wahlström said.
Updated at 11.41am GMT
8.33am GMT08:338.33am GMT08:33
This is video of the Glencar waterfall in Formoyle, Co. Leitrim, Ireland.This is video of the Glencar waterfall in Formoyle, Co. Leitrim, Ireland.
#WATCH - Storm Frank: Waterfall stream flows upwards due to extreme winds https://t.co/Nca3sO66kY pic.twitter.com/D0O94a6nu2#WATCH - Storm Frank: Waterfall stream flows upwards due to extreme winds https://t.co/Nca3sO66kY pic.twitter.com/D0O94a6nu2
8.25am GMT08:258.25am GMT08:25
8.13am GMT08:138.13am GMT08:13
Claire PhippsClaire Phipps
Libby Brooks sends more updates from Scotland, where the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency confirmed at 8am that there are 14 regional flood alerts and 62 more specific flood warnings across Scotland.Libby Brooks sends more updates from Scotland, where the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency confirmed at 8am that there are 14 regional flood alerts and 62 more specific flood warnings across Scotland.
But the agency also warned that the weather situation across the country was “still very much deteriorating” as the rain continues, with swollen rivers including the Nith in Dumfries and Galloway not expected to reach their peak until 3pm this afternoon or the Tay later this evening.But the agency also warned that the weather situation across the country was “still very much deteriorating” as the rain continues, with swollen rivers including the Nith in Dumfries and Galloway not expected to reach their peak until 3pm this afternoon or the Tay later this evening.
River Nith in Dumfries has risen over the past couple of hours. Potential record height later pic.twitter.com/x2xRnx9UhQRiver Nith in Dumfries has risen over the past couple of hours. Potential record height later pic.twitter.com/x2xRnx9UhQ
Scottish Southern Electricity has confirmed that 5,500 homes are currently without power across the north-east, Argyll and the Inner Hebrides, with engineers hampered overnight by winds of up to 90mph (145kph).Scottish Southern Electricity has confirmed that 5,500 homes are currently without power across the north-east, Argyll and the Inner Hebrides, with engineers hampered overnight by winds of up to 90mph (145kph).
I’m handing over this live blog now to my colleague Mark Tran, who’ll continue to bring you live updates as Storm Frank makes its way across the British Isles.I’m handing over this live blog now to my colleague Mark Tran, who’ll continue to bring you live updates as Storm Frank makes its way across the British Isles.
7.54am GMT07:547.54am GMT07:54
Libby BrooksLibby Brooks
Many ferry services are cancelled across the west coast of Scotland this morning, as yellow rain warnings remain in place. Police Scotland have issued a stage two “drive with caution” warning, as early morning drivers face surface water on main roads as well as reports of fallen trees across Aberdeenshire.Many ferry services are cancelled across the west coast of Scotland this morning, as yellow rain warnings remain in place. Police Scotland have issued a stage two “drive with caution” warning, as early morning drivers face surface water on main roads as well as reports of fallen trees across Aberdeenshire.
Around 11pm on Tuesday, a 74mph (119kph) wind gust was measured in Benbecula, in the Outer Hebrides.Around 11pm on Tuesday, a 74mph (119kph) wind gust was measured in Benbecula, in the Outer Hebrides.
A yellow alert for strong winds was issued for much of Scotland, with forecasters predicting winds up to 80mph (129kph) in exposed areas across the western coast of the mainland and the islands.A yellow alert for strong winds was issued for much of Scotland, with forecasters predicting winds up to 80mph (129kph) in exposed areas across the western coast of the mainland and the islands.
The coastguard advised vessel owners to think twice before sailing during the storms.The coastguard advised vessel owners to think twice before sailing during the storms.
The Dumfries and Galloway major emergency scheme was officially activated at 6am this morning, with reports of flooding near Castle Douglas as well as concerns that the River Nith may burst its banks.The Dumfries and Galloway major emergency scheme was officially activated at 6am this morning, with reports of flooding near Castle Douglas as well as concerns that the River Nith may burst its banks.
The River Nith in Dumfries is looking a bit wild #StormFrank pic.twitter.com/S1T1PsBLlGThe River Nith in Dumfries is looking a bit wild #StormFrank pic.twitter.com/S1T1PsBLlG
Some residents have already been evacuated in Newton Stewart, as the River Cree also threatens to burst its banks.Some residents have already been evacuated in Newton Stewart, as the River Cree also threatens to burst its banks.
By 7pm on Tuesday evening, the Skye bridge on Scotland’s west coast and the Dornoch bridge on the east coast near Tain were closed to high-sided vehicles. The Tay bridge on the east coast was closed to double decker buses and huge waves were pictured crashing against Aberdeen’s harbour walls.By 7pm on Tuesday evening, the Skye bridge on Scotland’s west coast and the Dornoch bridge on the east coast near Tain were closed to high-sided vehicles. The Tay bridge on the east coast was closed to double decker buses and huge waves were pictured crashing against Aberdeen’s harbour walls.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency has issued 50 flood warnings and 14 flood alerts for Angus, Dundee, Tayside and Dumfries, and in the Scottish Borders, the local council held a series of emergency planning meetings making particular provision for the Peebles and Upper Tweed areas.The Scottish Environment Protection Agency has issued 50 flood warnings and 14 flood alerts for Angus, Dundee, Tayside and Dumfries, and in the Scottish Borders, the local council held a series of emergency planning meetings making particular provision for the Peebles and Upper Tweed areas.
An extra 10,000 sandbags were filled to combat what is expected to be widespread significant flooding, particularly in Dumfries & Galloway and western parts of the Borders.An extra 10,000 sandbags were filled to combat what is expected to be widespread significant flooding, particularly in Dumfries & Galloway and western parts of the Borders.
But the extreme weather is expected to clear in time for Thursday’s Hogmanay celebrations, when tens of thousands of visitors will attend events in Edinburgh.But the extreme weather is expected to clear in time for Thursday’s Hogmanay celebrations, when tens of thousands of visitors will attend events in Edinburgh.
(A reader has pointed out that the Dornoch bridge is on Scotland’s east coast - not on the west. This has been corrected.)(A reader has pointed out that the Dornoch bridge is on Scotland’s east coast - not on the west. This has been corrected.)
Updated at 10.06am GMTUpdated at 10.06am GMT
7.49am GMT07:497.49am GMT07:49
According to the Met Office, December is set to be Britain’s mildest since records began in 1910 – in England, more than 5C above the long-term average.According to the Met Office, December is set to be Britain’s mildest since records began in 1910 – in England, more than 5C above the long-term average.
But for some parts of the UK – Cumbria, Lancashire and Wales – it will also have been the rainiest December on record.But for some parts of the UK – Cumbria, Lancashire and Wales – it will also have been the rainiest December on record.
As my colleague Tim Radford explains:As my colleague Tim Radford explains:
The problem in parts of northern England has been the sheer accumulation of water. If the rain falls on soil that is already soaked, then it will run across the surface, downhill and towards the rivers.The problem in parts of northern England has been the sheer accumulation of water. If the rain falls on soil that is already soaked, then it will run across the surface, downhill and towards the rivers.
Read more here:Read more here:
Related: Mildest December since UK records began means more rain – and more painRelated: Mildest December since UK records began means more rain – and more pain
7.43am GMT07:437.43am GMT07:43
Helen PiddHelen Pidd
The Guardian’s North of England editor is currently in Morecambe, in north Lancashire, and sends this report:The Guardian’s North of England editor is currently in Morecambe, in north Lancashire, and sends this report:
It’s very windy on the coast in the north-west of England this morning but little of the forecast rain has hit the region – yet.It’s very windy on the coast in the north-west of England this morning but little of the forecast rain has hit the region – yet.
Gales over over 30mph (48kph) woke me up at my parents’ house near Morecambe, with the Met Office forecasting winds of over 50mph (80kph) in the area from 8am.Gales over over 30mph (48kph) woke me up at my parents’ house near Morecambe, with the Met Office forecasting winds of over 50mph (80kph) in the area from 8am.
Unsurprisingly, it’s the wind which seems so far to be causing the problems.Unsurprisingly, it’s the wind which seems so far to be causing the problems.
The A5091 is closed in both directions between the A66 junction in Troutbeck and the A592 in Dockray because of a fallen tree – that’s one of the main routes to reach the villages of Glenridding and Paterdale on Lake Ullswater, which were hit so badly by floods and landslides a few weeks ago.The A5091 is closed in both directions between the A66 junction in Troutbeck and the A592 in Dockray because of a fallen tree – that’s one of the main routes to reach the villages of Glenridding and Paterdale on Lake Ullswater, which were hit so badly by floods and landslides a few weeks ago.
On the trains, travelling between Carlisle and Edinburgh and Glasgow will be tricky this morning following damage to overhead electric wires between Curriehill and Kirknewton.On the trains, travelling between Carlisle and Edinburgh and Glasgow will be tricky this morning following damage to overhead electric wires between Curriehill and Kirknewton.
No CrossCountry or First TransPennine Express trains will run between Edinburgh and Glasgow Central, and Virgin train services between London Euston and Edinburgh will be diverted, with journey times delayed by up to 40 minutes.No CrossCountry or First TransPennine Express trains will run between Edinburgh and Glasgow Central, and Virgin train services between London Euston and Edinburgh will be diverted, with journey times delayed by up to 40 minutes.
7.23am GMT07:237.23am GMT07:23
Latest summaryLatest summary
Claire PhippsClaire Phipps
A recap of the overnight and early Wednesday morning developments as Storm Frank makes its way across the British Isles:A recap of the overnight and early Wednesday morning developments as Storm Frank makes its way across the British Isles:
Updated at 7.32am GMTUpdated at 7.32am GMT
7.08am GMT07:087.08am GMT07:08
Dumfries and Galloway has activated its major emergency scheme in anticipation of flooding that Sepa (Scottish Environment Protection Agency) says “is going to be as high as they have ever recorded”.Dumfries and Galloway has activated its major emergency scheme in anticipation of flooding that Sepa (Scottish Environment Protection Agency) says “is going to be as high as they have ever recorded”.
Newton Stewart, in south-west Scotland, is being evacuated; and Dumfries and Galloway council warns that residents of Heck, Hightae and Greenhills will be cut off from the public road network due to flooding of the river Annan – which it says is likely to peak between 8am and 9am.Newton Stewart, in south-west Scotland, is being evacuated; and Dumfries and Galloway council warns that residents of Heck, Hightae and Greenhills will be cut off from the public road network due to flooding of the river Annan – which it says is likely to peak between 8am and 9am.
6.47am GMT06:476.47am GMT06:47
The centre of Storm Frank is currently over Iceland – the British Isles are experiencing the not inconsiderable effects of its trailing winds and rains – and the weather warnings there are even more severe.The centre of Storm Frank is currently over Iceland – the British Isles are experiencing the not inconsiderable effects of its trailing winds and rains – and the weather warnings there are even more severe.
South-east Iceland can expect winds of storm force 10 up to hurricane force 12 (“pretty rare”, according to meteorologist Tomasz Schafernaker), with the shipping forecast warning that the sea state is expected to be “very high or phenomenal, becoming very rough or high later”.South-east Iceland can expect winds of storm force 10 up to hurricane force 12 (“pretty rare”, according to meteorologist Tomasz Schafernaker), with the shipping forecast warning that the sea state is expected to be “very high or phenomenal, becoming very rough or high later”.
Centre of #StormFrank is right over Iceland but it's the trailing weather fronts bringing the UK severe weather 💦💨 pic.twitter.com/xllahIRIpOCentre of #StormFrank is right over Iceland but it's the trailing weather fronts bringing the UK severe weather 💦💨 pic.twitter.com/xllahIRIpO
6.35am GMT06:356.35am GMT06:35
Party-goers travelling by train over New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day face delays and disruption thanks to the double whammy of ongoing storms and engineering works.Party-goers travelling by train over New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day face delays and disruption thanks to the double whammy of ongoing storms and engineering works.
Network Rail says it has embarked on “one of the biggest Christmas and New Year investment programmes ever carried out on Britain’s rail network”.Network Rail says it has embarked on “one of the biggest Christmas and New Year investment programmes ever carried out on Britain’s rail network”.
But travellers will not be thrilled to hear that engineering works, combined with continuing bad weather from Storm Frank, are expected to affect some journeys.But travellers will not be thrilled to hear that engineering works, combined with continuing bad weather from Storm Frank, are expected to affect some journeys.
Related: New Year's Eve travel chaos looms amid engineering work and stormsRelated: New Year's Eve travel chaos looms amid engineering work and storms
6.16am GMT06:166.16am GMT06:16
Ireland has already witnessed several hours of strong winds and heavy downpours.Ireland has already witnessed several hours of strong winds and heavy downpours.
Midleton, in County Cork, saw flooding:Midleton, in County Cork, saw flooding:
Midleton under water tonight #StormFrank pic.twitter.com/w4mFzWnW2sMidleton under water tonight #StormFrank pic.twitter.com/w4mFzWnW2s
As did Graiguenamanagh, Kilkenny:As did Graiguenamanagh, Kilkenny:
Photos from Mark Bolger in Graiguenamanagh tonight where Main Street has flooded #StormFrank pic.twitter.com/LCSqEs3rBQPhotos from Mark Bolger in Graiguenamanagh tonight where Main Street has flooded #StormFrank pic.twitter.com/LCSqEs3rBQ
Met Éireann, the Irish meteorological service, said Wednesday morning remained “extremely windy”, although winds and rain were expected to ease later.Met Éireann, the Irish meteorological service, said Wednesday morning remained “extremely windy”, although winds and rain were expected to ease later.
6.08am GMT06:086.08am GMT06:08
Police Scotland has issued a “travel with caution” alert for the whole of Scotland for today, warning that conditions are likely to be hazardous:Police Scotland has issued a “travel with caution” alert for the whole of Scotland for today, warning that conditions are likely to be hazardous:
If you are travelling, you should ensure you and your vehicle are adequately prepared for the conditions, making sure you have sufficient fuel and supplies such as warm clothing, food and water in the event you are delayed for several hours.If you are travelling, you should ensure you and your vehicle are adequately prepared for the conditions, making sure you have sufficient fuel and supplies such as warm clothing, food and water in the event you are delayed for several hours.
Charge your mobile phone and plan your route as well as alternative routes.Charge your mobile phone and plan your route as well as alternative routes.
5.59am GMT05:595.59am GMT05:59
These images from BBC Weather show how Storm Frank has moved in from the south-west, first of all hitting Ireland and Northern Ireland overnight on Tuesday-into-Wednesday:These images from BBC Weather show how Storm Frank has moved in from the south-west, first of all hitting Ireland and Northern Ireland overnight on Tuesday-into-Wednesday:
RADAR: Extent of rain across the UK at 3am. Weather front heading to Wales and England now... #StormFrank Tomasz S pic.twitter.com/yBzRG8D1bkRADAR: Extent of rain across the UK at 3am. Weather front heading to Wales and England now... #StormFrank Tomasz S pic.twitter.com/yBzRG8D1bk
Then sweeping up through the west and north of England and Scotland – and across Wales – this morning:Then sweeping up through the west and north of England and Scotland – and across Wales – this morning:
Forecast for 8am - rain and gales sweeping western Britain. Dangerous waves around coasts. Tomasz S pic.twitter.com/0KyKb3qgkuForecast for 8am - rain and gales sweeping western Britain. Dangerous waves around coasts. Tomasz S pic.twitter.com/0KyKb3qgku
5.33am GMT05:335.33am GMT05:33
Opening summaryOpening summary
Claire PhippsClaire Phipps
Hot on the heels of Storms Desmond and Eva, which prompted mass flooding, especially across the north of England, Storm Frank is lashing the British Isles on Wednesday, bringing with it more rain and gale-force winds.Hot on the heels of Storms Desmond and Eva, which prompted mass flooding, especially across the north of England, Storm Frank is lashing the British Isles on Wednesday, bringing with it more rain and gale-force winds.
Here’s a round-up of what’s happened so far overnight, and what’s expected throughout the day:Here’s a round-up of what’s happened so far overnight, and what’s expected throughout the day:
Updated at 5.39am GMTUpdated at 5.39am GMT