There was a significant winter storm over much of the UK earlier this month. The storm brought exceptionally high winds over Southern Scotland, with wind speeds up to 81mph. Winds over Much of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland reached speeds in the high 60's (mph). There were major disruptions to power and rail lines as a result of downed trees and several fatalities occurred due to storm conditions.
http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/climate/uk/interesting/2012_janwind/
Mason Stahl