Storm Abigail Makes Landfall, Prompting Epic Scenes Across Great Britain

Dramatic video footage depicting Storm Abigail's landfall in the north west of England shows high waves crashing into Blackpool's promenade.

Social media users posted epic video from the seaside resort, while pictures showing scenes across Britain highlight some rather awe-inspiring scenes.

Meanwhile hundreds of homes are without power and schools have been closed as the storm makes its impact.

Footage shot in Blackpool shows the storm's effect on the sea

Driving conditions were treacherous

It comes as no surprise, therefore, that communities in northern England face the risk of significant river flooding this weekend as heavy rain is expected to fall on already saturated ground.

The Environment Agency warned that Cumbria, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, and North and West Yorkshire are the areas most at risk from significant river and localised surface water flooding on Saturday evening and into Sunday.

The flood risk comes as heavy, persistent rain is set to affect parts of northern England, with a month's rain potentially falling on localised high ground on Saturday evening and Sunday morning, following days of wet and windy weather, the agency told the Press Association.

Meanwhile in Scotland, the Highlands and Islands have been worst hit by gusts of 84mph in places but other parts of the country can expect heavy, thundery showers throughout the day as a result of Abigail, Britain's first named storm.

The storm is the first such weather system affecting the country to merit a name as part of the Met Office ''name our storms'' project, which asked the public to suggest names.

Officials hope the project will help raise awareness of severe weather and ensure greater safety of the public.