The UK is facing widespread disruption today as Storm Ingrid continues to batter the country with heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding. Rail, road, and coastal travel have all been severely affected, particularly in the south-west of England. Rail services between Exeter St Davids and Plymouth remain suspended following the collapse of part of the Dawlish sea wall.
A Network Rail spokesman said: "Inspections are required during daylight and low tide before trains can safely resume." Replacement bus services are operating between Tiverton Parkway and Plymouth, with stopping services running via Exeter, Newton Abbot, and Totnes. CrossCountry has reported cancellations on services to and from Plymouth due to a shortage of train drivers.
Storm Ingrid has caused significant structural damage along the coast. The Teignmouth National Coastwatch Institution said: "We have never seen it this rough before," after part of the 157-year-old Teignmouth Grand Pier was washed away. Network Rail reported that an 80-90ft stretch of the Dawlish sea wall at Sea Lawn Terrace was destroyed, leaving debris on the tracks.
The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for rain and wind covering much of England, Wales, and parts of Scotland. Meteorologist Tom Morgan said: "It's been a contrasting picture depending on where you live, but if you haven't seen rain so far this weekend, the likelihood is that you will see some tonight or through Sunday." Gusts of up to 60-70mph have been recorded on exposed coasts, and some areas have received up to 50mm of rain on already saturated ground.
According to the Met Office, there are currently 113 flood alerts and 20 flood warnings in place across the UK. Residents in affected areas are advised to move valuables to higher ground and never drive through floodwater.
Flooding has affected local roads in several regions, with the A377 and seafront roads in Torbay closed, and fallen trees and debris blocking other routes. Authorities have advised the public to postpone non-essential travel until conditions improve.
Martin Wrigley, MP for Newton Abbot, said: "The railway is a crucial lifeline and we need increased resilience work from Network Rail following the wall's failure."
Elsewhere in the UK, Scotland has seen persistent heavy rain, with over 100mm falling in high ground areas of the North-east and severe flood warnings issued for Grampian, Angus, and Perth. Coastal flood alerts have also been issued for Pembrokeshire in Wales. The Met Office has warned that further yellow rain warnings will be issued into next week, with a small chance of disruptive snow across northern highlands on Tuesday.
Residents have reported power outages and damage to homes and infrastructure. An Environment Agency spokesman said: "Heavy rain could lead to interruptions to other services, including electricity."
The Met Office and rail operators continue to advise caution. An Environment Agency spokesman said: "Check before you travel and never drive through floodwater."
Storm Ingrid is expected to continue affecting the UK over the coming days, prolonging travel disruption and flooding risks across multiple regions.
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