Storm Benjamin Makes Landfall Across UK
Storm Benjamin has arrived in the United Kingdom, bringing with it significant heavy rainfall and powerful winds, with gusts forecast to exceed 70mph in some areas. The Met Office has escalated its alerts, issuing four yellow weather warnings across various parts of England and Wales, indicating potential for widespread disruption. The storm, which was named by Météo-France, began affecting the UK from Wednesday evening, October 22, and is continuing its impact throughout Thursday, October 23, 2025.
Widespread Warnings for Rain and Wind
The Met Office's yellow weather warnings cover extensive regions, highlighting risks from both heavy rain and strong winds. A primary rain warning is in effect for a large swathe of the country, encompassing most of southern England, the East Midlands, parts of Wales, and Yorkshire. Within these areas, rainfall totals are widely expected to reach 20-30mm, with some localised spots potentially seeing up to 50mm, and isolated areas possibly experiencing as much as 90mm of rain. This heavy precipitation increases the risk of flooding and difficult driving conditions.
Separate warnings for wind have also been issued:
- For the east of England, stretching from Brighton up to Scarborough, gusts of up to 55mph are widely anticipated, with coastal areas potentially experiencing 65mph, and very localised gusts possibly reaching 70mph.
- In southwest England and parts of Wales, including regions like Somerset, Devon, Cornwall, Swansea, and Pembrokeshire, wind speeds are expected to reach up to 45mph widely, with exposed coasts and headlands facing gusts of up to 60mph.
- Overall, some areas could see winds between 65mph and 75mph.
Potential Disruptions and Official Advice
The severe weather conditions are expected to lead to a range of disruptions. Forecasters warn of potential power cuts, significant transport delays, and possible damage to buildings. Coastal communities are particularly vulnerable, with a 'small chance of injuries and danger to life' due to large waves and beach material being thrown onto seafronts and coastal roads. Flood alerts have already been issued for parts of the North Wales coastline.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Dan Harris and Chief Meteorologist Rebekah Hicks have both highlighted 'greater than usual uncertainty surrounding the track and intensity of this low-pressure system.' They advise the public to 'stay up to date with the latest forecasts and warnings as the situation evolves, with adjustments to the forecasts likely at short notice.'
5 Comments
Michelangelo
Heavy rain and strong winds are definitely concerning, especially for coastal areas. However, I wonder if the focus on immediate disruption overshadows the broader conversation about climate resilience.
Donatello
We appreciate the detailed warnings from the Met Office, which are vital for safety. Still, it's concerning that each major storm exposes the same vulnerabilities in our power and transport networks.
Leonardo
70mph winds? Sounds like typical British weather being overhyped again.
Raphael
While the Met Office is doing its best with warnings, it feels like our infrastructure constantly struggles with these increasingly frequent severe weather events. We need more long-term solutions.
Michelangelo
Good job by the Met Office for these early warnings! Staying safe is key.