Northern Ireland is bracing for a weekend of challenging weather conditions as Storm Bert approaches, bringing heavy rain, snow, and strong winds. The Met Office has issued yellow warnings for all three elements, highlighting the potential for travel disruptions, flooding, and power outages.
The storm’s impact is already being felt, with freezing temperatures and snowfall causing travel disruption in parts of Northern Ireland on Friday. Translink, the public transport operator, has warned of disruptions to bus and rail services, particularly on rural routes. Several services were canceled Friday morning due to the hazardous conditions.
Police have urged motorists to exercise caution and reduce speed on icy and snow-covered roads. The Met Office has forecast further challenging conditions as Storm Bert moves across the region.
Rain is expected to spread across Northern Ireland overnight on Friday, with snow falling on higher ground, particularly in the north and west. Snow accumulations of 5-10cm are possible above 150m, with up to 20cm on mountain tops.
By Saturday morning, the snow is expected to transition to rain, with widespread rainfall totals of 20-30mm and up to 60mm on hills, increasing the risk of flooding. A snow and rain warning is in effect from midnight on Friday until Sunday morning.
Strong winds are also expected, with gusts reaching up to 60mph in many areas and up to 70mph along exposed coasts. These winds could cause travel delays, damage trees, and lead to power outages. Coastal areas and sea fronts are at risk of large waves, and high-sided vehicles are advised to avoid exposed routes. A wind warning will be in place from Saturday morning until evening.
In response to the weather warnings, resurfacing work planned for the Sydenham Bypass in Belfast has been postponed, and the road will remain open throughout the weekend to help ease potential congestion.
The Republic of Ireland is also facing severe weather conditions due to Storm Bert. Met Éireann has issued a red weather alert for rain in Cork and Galway, warning of severe flooding, damage to homes and businesses, and dangerous travel conditions. Yellow wind and rain warnings are in place for the rest of the country, with an orange warning for rain issued for several counties on Saturday morning.
Storm Bert is expected to bring widespread disruption to travel and daily life across the island of Ireland. Authorities are urging the public to stay informed about weather updates, take necessary precautions, and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm.
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