UK, Ireland: Adverse weather associated with Storm Isha forecast across much of Ireland and the UK through at least Jan. 22

Adverse weather associated with a storm system named Storm Isha is forecast across much of Ireland and the UK through at least Jan. 22. Cold weather and associated wintry precipitation that has been dominating the region over recent days are set to be replaced by strong winds and spells of heavy rainfall as the system moves in from the Atlantic from Jan. 21. The strongest winds are expected in western parts of the British Isles late Jan. 21-early Jan. 22; gusts of up to 129 kph (80 mph) are possible across Northern Ireland, southern Scotland, northern and southwestern England, and Wales. Rainfall totals of 2-5 cm (0.8-2 inches) are forecast across parts of Wales, Scotland, and northern England Jan. 21-22, with isolated higher amounts of 8-10 cm (3.1-3.9 inches) possible over higher ground. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages. Disruptions to air travel, ground transport, and ferry services are possible during the passing of the storm.

As of Jan. 19, Met Eireann has issued the following warnings across Ireland:

• Yellow strong wind warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale): Across Ireland from 11:00 Jan. 21 to 06:00 Jan. 22.

The UK Met Office has issued the following warnings across the UK late Jan. 20-22:

• Amber strong wind (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Across Northern Ireland and parts of Wales, southern Scotland, and northern and southwestern England from 18:00 Jan. 21 to 09:00 Jan. 22; and parts of southeastern England from 00:01 to 09:00 Jan. 22.

• Yellow rain warnings: Parts of central Scotland from 17:00 to 23:59 Jan. 20; parts of northern England and Wales from 06:00 Jan. 21 to 06:00 Jan. 22; and parts of central and northern Scotland from 15:00 to 23:59 Jan. 21.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Across the UK from 12:00 Jan. 21 to 12:00 Jan. 22.

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.