Storm Floris triggers massive travel disruption across UK

A yellow warning has been issued for the northern parts of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, as Storm Floris became active at 6:00 am on Monday, August 4, 2025, and will last until 6:00 am on Tuesday. Amber warnings have been issued for Scotland and will be in effect from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

The Met Office warns of 80-90mph gusts on coasts and hills, posing a danger to life from flying debris and falling trees.

The Met Office’s chief meteorologist, Matthew Lehnert, stated: “Across the warning area, many inland areas are likely to see gusts of 40-50mph, with 60-70mph more likely at higher elevations and around exposed coasts in Scotland. There is a small chance that some locations here could even record gusts of 85mph.”

London North Eastern Railway (LNER) and Avanti West Coast have advised the public not to travel in the north of Newcastle/ Preston with tickets valid for later dates.

The rail lines will also be closed in Scotland from noon with speed restriction nationwide.

Related to travel via ferries, CalMac has cancelled multiple sailings while drivers were urged to avoid exposed routes due to strong wind gusts.

Events like Edinburgh’s Military Tattoo and Fringe by the Sea performances have also been delayed due to Storm Floris.

The strongest winds are expected to hit Scotland on August 4, 2025, but the unpredictability related to the depth and track of Floris persists.

Lehnert further added: “Winds will first ease in the west during later Monday but remaining very strong overnight until early Tuesday in the east. Heavy rain may also contribute to the disruption in places.”

Floris follows the UK’s fifth-warmest July, continuing a streak of six months with above-average temperatures.

Analyzing the previous patterns, it is evident that the storms in August have become more frequent with five since 2020, including 2023’s Storm Lilian. 

Officials highlight caution as Floris threatens power cuts, structural damage, and prolonged delays.