‘A risk to life’: Remembering Storm Babet one year on


Coastguards provide an emergency response during Storm Babet flooding.

Named Storm Babet by the Met Office, an intense cyclone and windstorm made its way through Europe in October 2023, causing dramatic storm surges and record high winds across Norway, Portugal, Denmark and Germany

In some areas, more rainwater fell in 36 hours than in half a year, while rivers in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire broke their banks to exceed record levels and powerful winds of between 70-110mph battered parts of Scotland. 

HM Coastguard’s Coastguard Rescue Teams (CRTs) and specialist flood rescue technicians were a crucial part of the major incident response, which was deemed a ‘risk to life’ by the Met Office, who issued a rare red severe weather warning. 

More than 10,000 people were evacuated from homes and properties, with hundreds being made homeless as towns and cities across the country were ravaged by Storm Babet, causing at least £500million of property damage.

As one of the four emergency services, HM Coastguard can be called to support with inland flooding, as well as coastal emergencies, and all coastguard rescue officers are trained and equipped in water rescue, which includes first response to flooding. 

 

Areas worst hit included Brechin in Angus, Scotland, which became largely inaccessible, and Aberdeen, where several major roads became impassable due to high waters overtopping food defences on the river South Esk. 

Railways and roads were also closed in Leeds, Sheffield and York, while flooding forced the evacuation of parts of Retford in Nottinghamshire, and caused widespread damage in Londonderry, Northern Ireland. 

Trained in flood response, specialist coastguards were also in called to provide regional and national expertise, with many volunteering to help support police and fire and rescue service colleagues.

Tragically, the storms were not without loss of life, as at least seven people were killed by the storm’s devastating impact. Director of HM Coastguard Claire Hughes said: “A year on from Storm Babet, our thoughts continue to be with the families and friends of those lost. 

“The damage caused and the level of emergency response required serves as a reminder of just how powerful storms can be, as well as the impact they have on lives and communities. 

“HM Coastguard continues to stand ready to respond in all situations, and we remain thankful to all those working alongside our teams to help save lives in the most incredibly difficult and challenging circumstances."

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