UK, Ireland: Adverse weather associated with Storm Debi ongoing across parts of Ireland and the UK Nov. 13

Adverse weather associated with Storm Debi is ongoing across much of Ireland and parts of the UK Nov. 13. The system is expected to weaken as it passes over Ireland early Nov. 13 before moving across northern England and into the North Sea by late Nov. 13. Strong winds are expected to be the primary hazard from the storm, with winds gusting up to 115 kph (71 mph) recorded in parts of western Ireland overnight Nov. 12-13. The strong winds will likely generate rough seas in coastal areas. Heavy downpours are also possible during the passing of the storm. As of early Nov. 13, more than 50,000 homes and businesses across Ireland are without power across Ireland and trees have blocked several roads across Ireland. Schools will open late in many areas due to the storm and public transport schedules are being disrupted. Further transport, utility, and business disruptions are likely in affected areas over the coming hours.

As of early Nov. 13, Met Eireann has issued the following warnings across Ireland:

• Red strong wind warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Dublin, Kildare, Laois, Louth, Meath, Wicklow, Offaly, and Westmeath counties through 09:00 Nov. 13.

• Orange strong wind warnings: Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wicklow, Cavan, Monaghan, Clare, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, Galway, and Roscommon counties through 10:00 Nov. 13.

• Yellow strong wind and rain warnings: Across Ireland through 15:00 Nov. 13.

The UK Met Office has issued the following warnings across the UK:

• Amber strong wind warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Parts of southeastern Northern Ireland through 10:00 Nov. 13 and parts of northwestern England through 16:00 Nov. 13.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Across Northern Ireland through 14:00 Nov. 13 and parts of northern and north-central England and northern and western Wales through 18:00 Nov. 13.

• Yellow rain warnings: Parts of eastern Scotland through 21:00 Nov. 13.

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, strong winds, 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.