16 Oct 2017 | 09:59 AM UTC
United Kingdom: Remnants of Hurricane Ophelia to hit October 16-17 /update 1
Fierce winds and heavy rainfall forecast as remnants of Hurricane Ophelia to hit country; flooding and transport disruptions expected October 16-17
Event
Remnants of Hurricane Ophelia - now a post-tropical storm but at one point the strongest hurricane registered so far east in the Atlantic Ocean - are expected to hit Northern Ireland on Monday, October 16, before passing over northern England and Scotland. According to the Met Office, winds up to 130 km/h (80 mph) and heavy rainfall are forecast October 16-17, with officials warning of a possible “danger to life.” The Met Office has issued an amber warning - the second highest on a four point scale - for Northern Ireland as well as a yellow warning - the third highest - for Wales, the northeast, northwest, and southwest of England, Scotland, and the West Midlands; the warning will come into effect at 12:00 (local time).
As a result, localized flooding may occur, as well as power outages and transport disruptions, including flight cancelations and delays at Belfast International Airport (BFS).
Advice
Travelers are advised to confirm their flight status prior to departure for the airport. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
