As Storm Kathleen continues to batter parts of the UK, Scotland, and Ireland with high winds and heavy rain, authorities have issued multiple warnings about potential flooding and travel disruptions. The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency alongside the Met Office monitors the situation closely, urging public caution.
Storm Kathleen has unleashed considerable disruption across Scotland, the UK, and Ireland, with ongoing severe weather conditions expected to continue causing issues into Sunday. The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) has issued several flood alerts and warnings, particularly highlighting the risk of coastal flooding. The Met Office extended a yellow wind warning for Scotland, noting wind speeds could reach up to 73mph in specific areas, emphasizing the potential for storm surges and large waves that could pose a significant threat, especially around high tides.
The storm’s impact is widespread, with travel services like CalMac ferries and Scotrail reporting cancellations and disruptions due to the adverse weather. Further, the UK has seen over 140 flight cancellations, while in Ireland, thousands are left without electricity.
Authorities in affected areas are urging residents to remain cautious and vigilant, particularly near coastal regions due to the forecasted high winds and potential for associated flooding. The situation has led to the Environment Agency issuing over 100 flood alerts across England and Wales, cautioning about further anticipated rainfall.
Despite the havoc, some individuals have been seen taking advantage of the stormy conditions for activities like kite surfing in Portland Harbour, Dorset, and capturing dramatic weather scenes on camera, as witnessed in Salthill, County Galway.
While Storm Kathleen has marked the hottest day of the year so far with temperatures reaching 20.9C, its aftermath includes significant travel disruptions, power outages, and a reminder for drivers and residents in impacted regions to exercise caution. With the storm expected to subside by Sunday evening, another weather system is anticipated to follow, potentially extending the period of inclement weather and associated risks.
