Storm Benjamin Batters UK, Disrupts Travel

Storm Benjamin, named by Météo‑France, has made landfall in western Europe and battered the UK with gale‑force winds of about 70–75 mph and heavy rain as the low moves from the English Channel into the North Sea. The Met Office has issued multiple yellow warnings for wind and rain covering large parts of southern and eastern England, the East Midlands, Wales and Yorkshire, with widespread rainfall of 20–50 mm possible and isolated totals up to about 90 mm, and coastal gusts that could exceed 70 mph. Authorities warned of flooding, power cuts, building damage and travel disruption, with rail services delayed or suspended and incidents such as a tree falling onto tracks at Watford Junction/London Euston already reported. Forecasters said there is a small chance of injuries or danger to life from large waves and thrown beach material and urged coastal residents to check properties and prepare flood plans. The storm is also expected to bring severe conditions to parts of western Europe, including France, Belgium and the Netherlands, and some events and fixtures have been altered because of the weather.