Atlantic Coasts Brace Against Ice, Severe Storms

A catastrophic ice storm wreaking havoc in the American South is now poised to pummel the eastern seaboard; on the other side of the ocean 'Orange', and 'Red' warnings have been issued by Met Éireann and the UK Met Office respectively.

Crowley Maritime has warned customers: 'That due to he severity of the predicted storm tonight through tomorrow, be advised that all Container Terminals in the Port of NY/NJ will be closed Thursday, February 13th.  We will advise tomorrow at 1:00 PM the gate opening hours for Friday morning.  Please continue to check individual terminal websites for additional information."

On the other side of the Atlantic, Met Éireann warns that west to southwest gales or strong gales will continue overnight on all Irish coastal waters and the Irish Sea. Winds are forecasted to continue to reach storm force for a time on coasts from Rossan Point to Fair Head to Carlingford Lough.

The UK Met Office said gusts of over 100 mph had been recorded and a 'Red Alert', the first of the winter, had been issued. Sixteen severe flood warnings remain in place over the country in what the Government has described as an almost unparalleled natural crisis.

Sources: Crowley Maritime, UK Meteorological Office, Met Éireann, BBC News,