The UK’s first named storm has hit the North West over recent days, disrupting travel across Merseyside… and forecasters warn it is only going to get worse.
Storm Abigail will continue to bring downpours and strong winds throughout the region for the next few days after hitting the west coast and Liverpool today.
Merseyrail have warned commuters to expect delays due to disruption on some of its lines, particularly between Freshfield and Formby. Delays are also predicted on the Southport and Hunts Cross northern line.
The Met Office has said on its website the rain will continue for the remainder of the week and officials have put yellow wind and rain warnings in place in other parts of the country.
But it is coastal areas in the west which will feel the full force of Abigail as it rips in from the Atlantic, fueled by a strong jet stream.
Motorists are being warned to take extra care on the roads as winds could exceed 25mph in the region today.
For weather to qualify for a name, there must be a medium to high risk of wind damage. Storm Abigail is the first in the UK to follow in the American practice of naming wild weather alphabetically.