Eighteen people died as a result of the Great Storm of 1987. This significant weather event impacted many parts of the United Kingdom during the night of October 15-16, 1987.
Impact of the Great Storm of 1987
The Great Storm of 1987 was an exceptionally powerful extratropical cyclone that brought hurricane-force winds across the UK. While the loss of life was tragic, the storm also caused widespread devastation to infrastructure and the natural environment.
Key impacts included:
- Fatalities: 18 individuals lost their lives directly due to the storm's intensity.
- Wind Speeds: Wind gusts reached speeds of up to 100 miles per hour (160 km/h), causing extensive damage.
- Environmental Damage: Millions of trees were blown down, significantly altering landscapes and affecting forestry.
- Infrastructure Disruption: Transport networks, including roads, railways, and air travel, faced serious disruption, and power outages affected over a million homes.
For further details on the historical context and lessons learned from this event, you can refer to information provided by the Met Office.
Summary of the Storm's Effects
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date | Night of 15-16 October 1987 |
| Affected Region | Many parts of the UK |
| Peak Wind Gusts | Up to 100 mph (160 km/h) |
| Fatalities | 18 people |
| Trees Blown Down | Millions |
| Other Impacts | Serious transport disruption, widespread power outages, significant property damage |
This storm remains one of the most memorable and impactful weather events in recent British history, prompting significant improvements in weather forecasting and emergency preparedness.
