Over the weekend, Storm Bert unleashed a deadly combination of severe flooding, heavy snow, and gale-force winds across the UK, leaving widespread destruction and claiming at least 12 lives.
Over the weekend, Storm Bert unleashed a deadly combination of severe flooding, heavy snow, and gale-force winds across the UK, leaving widespread destruction and claiming at least 12 lives.
In Wales, the town of Pontypridd faced extensive flooding, with homes and streets submerged under water. Residents resorted to buckets to clear their properties, while emergency services pumped water from main roads back into local rivers to restore transport links. Among the dramatic rescues was a stranded dog saved by emergency workers. Local resident Victor shared his experience of evacuating his home with his partner and their cat, saying:
"It’s not something you think will happen to you. You see it on the news happening in Spain or elsewhere, and then suddenly, it’s your reality."
The storm caused power outages for over 60,000 homes, businesses, and farms. Transport networks were severely affected, with roads, railways, and flights disrupted. In a tragic incident, a man in his 60s lost his life when a falling tree struck his car on the A34 highway in southern England.
Adrian Bairstow, a local fire service station manager, highlighted the collaborative efforts to manage the crisis:
"We work closely with the environmental agency and monitor river levels at the stations. Thankfully, water levels are receding, allowing us to pump excess water back into the river system."
Dubbed a “multi-hazard event” by the Meteorological Office, Storm Bert brought snow, torrential rain, and ferocious winds, making it one of the most challenging weather events in recent years. Recovery efforts are now in full swing as residents and emergency crews work tirelessly to repair the damage and restore normalcy.
Experts urge caution as weather forecasts predict further instability in the coming days. Meanwhile, affected communities remain hopeful for calmer conditions and swift recovery.
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Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for February 21st, covering the latest developments you need to know.
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Pope Francis is showing improvement, the Vatican said, as the pontiff began his eighth day in hospital. Francis was admitted after struggling with breathing and is being treated for pneumonia.
EU boosts undersea cable security with nearly €1B reallocation, enhancing surveillance, deterrence, and rapid response. A new data-sharing system, drone program, and emergency repair fleet aim to protect critical infrastructure amid rising sabotage concerns.
China's centuries-old treasures have been pulled out of storage to be restored for display at Beijing's Forbidden City and Palace Museum. Meticulous repairs are needed ahead of the museum's 100th anniversary this year.
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