Rail travelers experienced cancellations and significant delays due to heavy overnight rain. Flooding affected parts of London with forecasts of up to 4cm of rainfall in certain areas. The inclement weather, brought by the remnants of Hurricane Nigel, is anticipated to persist through the weekend in the UK.
National Rail reported the closure of all lines between London Kings Cross/Moorgate and Stevenage in Hertfordshire due to “a number of incidents”. Passengers were advised of potential cancellations, delays of up to 90 minutes, or altered schedules. The disruption was projected to last until 9 am. Damage to overhead electric wires led to the shutdown of all rail routes via Stevenage, and travelers were cautioned against using those routes.
Service disruptions were also noted through Tulse Hill in Lambeth, Cheltenham Spa, Lewes and Wivelsfield in East Sussex, and West Ealing and Greenford in west London. Earlier, flooding caused interruptions on rail lines in Burnham, Buckinghamshire, and between Swansea and Llandrindod in Wales. Both incidents have since been resolved.
The London Fire Brigade reported receiving numerous calls related to flooded roads and properties. Crews were mobilized promptly to address the situations, and they urged individuals to refrain from driving through floodwaters.
Thursday’s forecast includes sunny spells in eastern England, though some heavy and thundery showers may develop elsewhere during the day, gradually easing in the evening. According to Met Office meteorologist Aidan McGivern, a band of rain will clear early on Thursday, giving way to sunny intervals and occasional showers. Low-pressure systems will remain in proximity to the UK, possibly bringing cooler weather and chilly nights heading towards the weekend.
The inclement weather coincides with the progress of Nigel, a Category 1 hurricane, across the northern Atlantic. Meteorologists anticipate a weakening of Nigel before it reaches the UK. While heavy showers and thunderstorms are predicted for Friday, the Met Office anticipates that they will not be as severe as the weather experienced last weekend.