Ireland, UK: Storm Babet to bring adverse weather across parts of both countries through at least Oct. 21 /update 1

Event

Adverse weather associated with Storm Babet is forecast to affect much of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Scotland through at least Oct. 21. Heavy rainfall and strong winds are expected as the storm moves slowly northeastward across the affected areas over the coming days. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages. Associated disruptions to transport are likely during the passing of the storm.

As of Oct. 18, Met Eireann has issued the following weather warnings across Ireland:

• Orange rain warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Cork, Kerry, and Waterford through mid-Oct. 18.
• Yellow rain warnings: Across the rest of the country through late Oct. 18.

The UK Met Office has issued the following warnings across the UK over the coming days:

• Red rain warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Parts of Grampian and Central, Tayside, and Fife in eastern Scotland late Oct. 19-mid Oct. 20.
• Amber rain warnings: Parts of eastern Scotland early Oct. 19-early Oct. 20 and parts of northern Scotland late Oct. 19-early Oct. 20.
• Amber strong wind warnings: Parts of eastern Scotland Oct. 19.
• Yellow rain warnings: Across Northern Ireland Oct. 18-early Oct. 19 and across much of central, eastern, and southern Scotland and parts of northern Scotland early Oct. 19-early Oct. 21.
• Yellow wind warnings: Parts of central, eastern, and northern Scotland, including the Orkney and Shetland islands, early Oct. 19-mid Oct. 20.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger further flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil. Further disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; further freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations before traveling in affected areas. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Met Eireann
Met Office UK
Scottish Environment and Protection Agency Flood Updates
Environment Agency England Flood Alerts 
Natural Resources Wales Flood Warnings