Storm Isha sweeps across UK, causing chaos in land and air transport
Winter storm Isha began to hit the UK and Ireland from north to south on the 21st, bringing winds of up to 144 km/h, causing rail disruptions, flight cancellations, and tens of thousands of households to lose water and electricity. The strong winds also blew down trees, killing at least five people.
The force of nature caused a crisis at London Heathrow Airport, where strong crosswinds forced many planes to abandon landing and circle in the air. A short trip from Manchester to Dublin was forced to divert to France or Germany, leaving thousands of British passengers stranded in Europe or taking buses back to the UK. Dozens of flights were also cancelled at Edinburgh and Glasgow airports. Airlines also cancelled 102 flights to and from Dublin Airport in Ireland.
Meanwhile, Schiphol Airport in the Dutch capital Amsterdam announced the cancellation of 130 flights on Monday (22nd) to prevent the storm Isha from invading.
According to Reuters, Scotland was the worst hit, with speeds exceeding 144 km/h, causing all trains to stop. In southern England, trains from London to London Gatwick Airport were also affected. The storm caused power outages in many places, and UK Power Networks said that most areas in eastern and southeastern England have restored power, but Northern Ireland still has more than 45,000 households without water and electricity. The bad news is that although Isha will leave on the 23rd, the 10th storm will follow, and the British government warns the public to remain vigilant.
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