Emily Brown
Live footage from London's Heathrow Airport shows planes struggling to take off and land as one of the worst storms in decades hits the UK.
The Met Office has issued rare red weather warnings as Storm Eunice batters the UK with strong winds, with 'damaging gusts and disruption' expected in much of the south and southeast today, February 18.
Both red and amber warnings for wind are in place in London, where footage from Heathrow shows just how much the weather is impacting aircraft.
Check it out below:
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A large number of flights have been delayed or cancelled as the storm hits the capital, with Heathrow's website explaining that 'high winds and poor weather can cause last-minute delays, but we will do everything in our power to minimise any disruption'.
The site adds: 'Please continue to check with your airline for the latest flight information.'
A live stream from the airport shows planes being pushed about by the wind, making it challenging for pilots to leave the runway and for incoming planes to land safely. According to The Independent, British Airways has cancelled at least 80 domestic and European flights to and from London airports, including 44 serving Heathrow and 36 at London City.
While Heathrow is still attempting some flights, MyLondon reports that all flights in and out of London City Airport have been cancelled until 4.30pm this afternoon.
The Met Office has explained that red weather warnings are rarely issued, with the last one coming in November 2021 and the second most recent one occurring in March 2018.
Commenting on the severe weather, Met Office Chief Meteorologist Paul Gundersen said: 'After the impacts from Storm Dudley for many on Wednesday, Storm Eunice will bring damaging gusts in what could be one of the most impactful storms to affect southern and central parts of the UK for a few years.'
'The red warning areas indicate a significant danger to life as extremely strong winds provide the potential for damage to structures and flying debris. Although the most exposed coastal areas could see gusts in excess of 90mph, winds will remain notably strong further inland, with gusts of between 60-70mph for most within the amber warning area, and up to 80mph in a few places.'
Members of the public are being encouraged to stay up to date with the latest warnings as the storm continues to move over the UK.
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