On the Thursday 23rd February 2017 here were harsh winds of up to 94mph, lashing rain and snow in some areas of the UK. This “weather bomb” as it was called by the Met Office can only be one thing: Storm Doris. Storm Doris was named as they considered it was a storm that was going to have a large impact on the UK; typically one that has caused the public to be given an amber or a red warning. Though heads may turn as the name ‘Doris’ does not sound frightening, it was just as bad as trailed by the weather forecasts.
Nationally, Doris caused much destruction; Colwyn Bay pier was damaged, air-travel was disrupted and, tragically, many injuries and a few fatalities occurred. However, how did Storm Doris affect us locally? Firstly, the train service was severely affected through many delays and cancellations, making it difficult for those trying to reach work or school. Then Bromley’s charter market had to be closed as a safety precaution, as one or more stalls would have been likely to fall apart under the pressure from the wind. Then there have been reports of trees falling, bins were flying around and even a trampoline swept across a local garden. Though these events were certainly not ideal, they thankfully were not as severe as in many other areas.
Fantastically, the leaves and litter were making vortices against buildings, especially in the windtraps at entrances: spinning and swirling, rising and collapsing, then hurrying up the blowy streets. Hardly a tornado, but a small reminder of the power of nature.
Therefore, although maybe Doris has not hit Bromley as hard in comparison to elsewhere in the UK, we still need to be prepared for the next storm; when it will come is uncertain, but when it does, make sure you follow all of the necessary precautions that will keep both you and everyone around you safe.
By Klara Bell, Newstead Wood School
