Ireland: Adverse weather forecast nationwide through April 7

Storm Kathleen is forecast to bring strong winds across Ireland through at least April 7. Heavy rainfall, lightning, and hail may accompany storms. As of early April 5, Met Eireann has issued the following warnings:

• Orange (the middle level on a three-tier scale) wind warnings: Cork, Kerry, Waterford, Galway, and Mayo April 6.

• Orange storm warnings: from Roche's Point to Loop Head to Rossan Point April 6.

• Yellow wind warnings: the rest of Ireland April 6.

• Yellow small craft warnings: all coasts of Ireland April 5-7.

• Yellow gale warnings: all coasts of Ireland and on the Irish Sea April 5-7.

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

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. 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. If strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, authorities may temporarily suspend port and ferry operations or close beach fronts. Flooding could block regional rail lines; 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 and some employees' inability to reach work sites.