Ireland, UK: Storm Bert to bring severe weather across the region through at least Nov. 26 /update 2

Severe weather is forecast to continue across much of Ireland and the UK through at least Nov. 26 due to the passing of Storm Bert. Wintry precipitation, strong winds, and dropping temperatures have been impacting the region in recent days, and further strong winds are expected as the storm tracks eastward across northern Scotland in the UK early Nov. 25. Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying areas. Hazardous travel conditions are likely in areas where more wintry precipitation occurs due to slippery roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. Sporadic power outages are also possible as a result of adverse weather.

As of early Nov. 25, Met Eireann is maintaining the following weather warnings:

• Yellow wind warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale): Across Donegal, Leitrim, Mayo, and Sligo counties Nov. 25.

• Yellow gale warnings: From Erris Head to Malin Head to Carlingford Lough and on the Irish Sea Nov. 25.

• Small craft warnings: Across all coasts of Ireland Nov. 25 and from Rossan Point to Malin Head to Strangford Lough Nov. 26.

The UK's Met Office is maintaining the following weather warnings:

• Yellow wind warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale): Most of northern and central Scotland Nov. 25.

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

In the UK, at least four people have died during vehicular accidents, and another fatality occurred due to floodwaters. Authorities have declared a major incident in Pontypridd, South Wales, due to flooding as the River Taff burst its banks. Around 200-300 properties in the area have been affected by flooding. An emergency shelter is located at the Aberfan Community Centre. At least 10 people were rescued from a house in Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog, near Llangollen in north Wales, late Nov. 23 following a landslide.

Flights at Newcastle International Airport (NCL) and Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) were canceled, diverted, or delayed early Nov. 23 due to heavy snow. Heathrow Airport (LHR) canceled hundreds of flights Nov. 23-24. Train operators suspended several services Nov. 23-24; some services have since resumed. More than 20,000 households were without power at the height of the storm.

In Ireland, reports indicate that heavy rainfall led to flooding in parts of the west coast of Ireland, making some roads impassable. Over 60,000 households, farms, and businesses were without power at the height of the storm late Nov. 22-23.

The storm system could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, including rain and snow, and strong winds across the affected area. Where precipitation falls as rain, flash, and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Precipitation could fall as snow in parts of the affected area over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in these areas.

Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow may make driving hazardous in parts of the region; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in affected locations.

Disruptive weather could cause delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding or snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or strong winds, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. Repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions if there is severe damage to infrastructure.