Weather warnings are being issued for the severe weather ahead as Storm Kathleen begins to approach the UK and Ireland. The storm is expected to bring gusty winds, heavy rain and potentially disruptive weather conditions.
Weather Forecast Overview
The imminent storm, which is expected to arrive on Friday, is set to cause wind gusts of up to 80 km/h in the UK and Ireland. In some exposed coastal areas, maximum wind speeds could reach 96km/h to 112km/h, accompanied by large ocean waves.
On top of the strong winds, some parts of Scotland, the western regions and the north-east of England are expected to experience heavy rainfall. However, temperatures are expected to remain mild, with potential highs of 20°C, which would be the first time this year that such warmth has been observed.
Storm Kathleen
Storm Kathleen, named by MetEireann, will be a major low pressure system moving off the west coast carrying strong southerly winds and damaging gusts across the country on Saturday. It is the eleventh named storm of the 2023-24 season, and it is the second to reach the letter "K", following Storm Katie in March 2016.
A nationwide yellow wind warning has been issued by Met Éireann for Saturday, from 7am until 5pm, along with amber wind warnings for counties Cork, Kerry, Galway and Mayo.
“It is the end of the Easter holidays, so there will be a lot of people travelling, and they may not be expecting such unseasonably strong and gusty winds. Please make sure to plan your journeys in advance by keeping in contact with the forecast. We are likely to see some trees down due to the saturated soils and strong winds. There will be dangerous conditions at sea too, coupled with wave overtopping and coastal flooding in some areas.” said Liz Coleman, Deputy Head of Forecasting.
Storm Kathleen is likely to cause the following damage :
- Very difficult travel conditions
- Falling trees
- Some power outages
- Coastal flooding
- Wave overtopping
#StormKathleen has been named by @MetEireann and is forecast to bring strong winds to Ireland and much of the UK on Saturday
Stay #weatheraware pic.twitter.com/dcDmifdqjL
— Met Office (@metoffice) April 4, 2024
Met Office's Warnings
The Met Office has also issued a yellow alert for rain on Friday, particularly between 2am and 9am. It covers central and southern Scotland, where 15 to 25 millimetres of rain could accumulate in the space of six hours. Some places could receive up to 35 millimetres overnight.
A separate yellow warning for snow has been issued for central and northern Scotland and north-east England. Snow accumulations of up to 10 centimetres are possible above 300 metres, and 2 to 5 centimetres above 250 metres. Snow may also fall at lower altitudes.
There is also a yellow wind warning for Saturday, covering the western parts of Scotland, Wales and England in the north-west and south-west. Strong gusts could cause disturbances in these regions.
Meanwhile, the Environment Agency has issued 12 warnings and 93 alerts for the south of England due to the flood risk caused by heavy rain and high tides.
- To View the Flood Zones Map
- Find Out About Flooding Near You
- Scottish Flood Forecast
- Wales Flood warnings and alerts
Long Range Forecast
Over the next ten days, unstable weather is expected across the UK. Heavy rain is expected, particularly in the north and west. Adverse weather conditions are likely to cause travel disruption. Heavy showers are expected over central Scotland, which is likely to affect travel plans.
Motorists have been advised by the RAC to exercise caution and reduce speed due to the adverse weather conditions. Spokesman Rod Dennis recommended being prepared for buffeting effects when passing high-sided vehicles and avoiding coastal or high altitude roads where winds will be strongest.
Residents should keep all loose items securely fastened, avoid unnecessary movement, and keep abreast of the latest weather forecasts.