Thunder Thursday - A Perfect Storm?

Last Thursday, Perhaps the worst storm in memory hit the North East - it certainly caused the most problems to a lot of us...It seemed to occur at exactly the right time - rush hour- to cause maximum disruption to travel plans. Very quickly the Tyne Tunnel was closed, the central motorway shut, public transport stopped - all due to flooding. Abandoned cars and stranded people in deep water added to the confusion and difficulties on the road.
 
I happened to be in London at a meeting during the day and was flying back on the 

Lightning Hits the Tyne Bridge

6-30pm totally unaware of the problems - London had blue sky and was hot and sticky (28'C).
 
When I flew back to Newcastle - There was Chaos! It took me until 11pm to drive back from the airport...
 
Our shop has suffered a little damage as water came through the shutter mechanism...but nothing compared to some pharmacies. One pharmacy in particular had a metre of water flooding the shop. I take my hat off to the staff in that pharmacy who continued to provide pharmaceutical services the next day as they cleared up the storm damage. Another refit will be needed, but their stoic spirit is a credit to the profession and themselves! Well done to all who experienced difficulties, kept calm and carried on regardless.