UK: Adverse weather associated with Storm Henk forecast across parts of England and Wales through late Jan. 2

Adverse weather associated with Storm Henk is forecast across much of southern England and Wales Jan. 2. The system is expected to weaken in the evening. Authorities have issued an amber wind warning (the second on a three-tiered scale) for parts of Wales and England, as well as yellow wind and rain warnings across the rest of Wales and most of England. Strong winds are expected to be the primary hazard from the storm, with winds gusting up to 113-129 kph (70-80 mph) possible in coastal areas and 80-97 kph (50-60 mph) in inland areas. The strong winds will likely generate rough seas in coastal areas. Heavy downpours are also possible during the passing of the storm, and in some areas may result in 35-55 mm (1.4-2.1 inches) of rain.

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

• Amber wind warnings: Southern Wales, Southern England, the Midlands, and East Anglia through 20:00 Jan. 2.

• Yellow rain warnings: Wales, Southern England, the Midlands, and the North through 21:00 Jan. 2.

• Yellow snow warnings: Wales, Southern England, the Midlands, and the North through 21:00 Jan. 2.

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.