Storm Kathleen: Thousands Without Power, Major Attraction Closes, Flights Disrupted

Storm Kathleen caused significant disruption in the UK and Ireland over the weekend.

The storm resulted in the closure of Titanic Belfast due to roof damage.

Thousands of people were left without power, and numerous flights were cancelled.

Gusts of up to 70mph made it difficult for planes to land safely at Heathrow Airport, with one British Airways flight aborting its landing.

Over 140 flights were cancelled at UK airports on Saturday, including all Aer Lingus services at Belfast City Airport.

Approximately 34,000 homes in Ireland lost power, primarily in Mayo, Galway, Kerry, and Cork, with around 12,000 customers still without electricity on Saturday evening.

Titanic Belfast closed due to roof damage caused by Storm Kathleen, forcing the attraction to refund customers and remain closed until Monday.

Winds reached 73mph in Drumalbin, Lanarkshire.

The M48 Severn Bridge was closed on Saturday night due to strong winds.

A yellow weather warning for wind is in effect for parts of Scotland and northern England on Sunday.

The UK experienced warm weather on Saturday, with the highest temperature of 20.9C recorded in Suffolk.

The Environment Agency has issued 20 flood warnings and 120 flood alerts in England, and 45 red cautions for strong streams on the River Thames remain in effect.

As of Sunday morning, National Resources Wales has one flood warning and 15 flood alerts in place.

The Met Office issued a warning for potential injuries and danger to life due to large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads, and properties.

Met Office meteorologist Ellie Glaisyer explained that Storm Kathleen, located west of the UK, is responsible for the warmer temperatures in the region as it brings a southerly wind across the country.