Two storms leave double the chaos

Transport havoc from flooding and gales

- Cyril Dixon

A SECOND dose of storm chaos within 48 hours left a trail of damage across the country yesterday.

Towns and villages were turned into lakes and trees were brought crashing down as Storm Fergus blew in after Elin.

Cars were stranded in high water or struck by falling branches while overhead railway power lines were seen exploding in showers of sparks.

At least 40 flood warnings were in place yesterday and rain of up to 1.5in was expected in parts as forecasters predicted more bad weather.

Downpours

Met Office chief meteorologist Andy Page said: "Storm Fergus will conclude what has been an unsettled weekend of weather for the UK."