Storm Arwen leaves two dead in UK, triggers power cuts

AFP / Glyn Kirk

At least two people died and tens of thousands were left without power as Storm Arwen brought strong winds across many parts of the United Kingdom, with gusts of up to 100 mph (160 kph).

One man died in Northern Ireland's County Antrim when his car was struck by a falling tree on Friday evening, police said in a statement. Local media reported the man was the principal of a primary school.

Another man was killed in Cumbria in the northwest of England when he was hit by a falling tree, police said.

Gusts of 98 mph hit Brizlee Wood in Northumberland, northeastern England, according to the Met Office, which said yellow warnings remained in place on Saturday across much of the country.

"Many roads remain closed so please only travel if absolutely necessary," it said on Twitter.

More than 100,000 customers were without power, Northern Powergrid, which delivers electricity to properties in the North East of England and Yorkshire, said on Saturday morning.

Engineers were also working to restore supplies in Scotland and southern England.

P&O Ferries said it had been forced to halt sailing between Northern Ireland and Scotland. 

More from International News

On Virgin Radio today

Trending on Virgin Radio

  • BRED Abu Dhabi

    BRED Abu Dhabi, Presented by Hypebeast, is back April 24-28 in Yas Bay. The line up is next level and locked in.

  • Jason Derulo on the Kris Fade Show!

    The super-star and multi-award-winning singer-songwriter, Jason Derulo is bringing the heat to Dubai.

  • ARN News Centre

    Get the latest UAE and world news from our award winning team of journalists. The ARN News Centre is the country's most trusted source of information.

  • Ed Sheeran - UAE EXCLUSIVE

    Latest album, what happened with BTS, raising a baby girl, eye surgery, and more!