Severe Weather Conditions Disrupt Flights and Services in the UK and Ireland
Severe weather conditions, including Storm Kathleen, have caused disruptions in the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland, affecting flights and services across both countries.
Flight Cancellations and Diversions
Dozens of flights were cancelled in the UK and Ireland on Saturday as a result of Storm Kathleen. The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning, leading to the cancellation of approximately 140 flights departing and arriving at UK airports.
Power Outages in Ireland
Thousands of homes in Ireland experienced power outages due to strong winds associated with the storm. Irish power supplier ESB Networks reported that around 34,000 homes, farms, and businesses were impacted by the outages.
Response and Impact
ESB Networks crews are actively responding to power outages in affected areas, prioritizing safety. Meanwhile, in Scotland, rail and ferry services were disrupted, with temporary speed restrictions implemented on rail services.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency has issued 18 regional alerts and 43 flood warnings in response to the severe weather conditions. Vincent Fitzsimons, the agency’s flood duty manager, highlighted the potential impacts of the storm, including high winds and coastal flooding in western areas.
Fitzsimons emphasized the need for communities in the Western Isles and Orkney to be prepared for the effects of the storm, which are expected to progress across the country in the coming days.
