UK, Ireland: Adverse weather associated with Storm Gerrit ongoing across parts of Ireland and the UK through early Dec. 29

Adverse weather associated with Storm Gerrit is ongoing across much of the UK and Ireland Dec. 27. The system is expected to weaken early Dec. 28. Strong winds are expected to be the primary hazard from the storm, with winds gusting up to 104-112 kph (65-70 mph) recorded in parts of Northern Ireland early Dec. 27. 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 Dec. 27 several thousand households and businesses across Scotland and England remained without power. while 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 Dec. 27, Met Eireann has issued the following warnings across Ireland:

• Orange strong wind warnings: Clare, Cork, Kerry, Galway through 00:01 Dec. 29.

• Yellow strong wind and rain warnings: Nationwide through 00:01 Dec. 29.

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

• Yellow wind warnings: Across Scotland, Wales and southern England through Dec. 28.

• Yellow rain warnings: Parts of Scotland, northern and central England, and Wales and through Dec. 28.

• Yellow snow warnings: Parts of Scotland through Dec. 28.

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.