Wind Warnings

Met Éireann has placed eight counties under a Status Yellow wind warning. The affected counties include Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo, Clare, Kerry, and Limerick. The warning is in effect from Saturday afternoon until Sunday evening. Strong westerly winds are expected to bring large coastal waves, making travel hazardous, especially near the coast.

Snow and Ice Alerts

In addition to the wind warnings, a Status Yellow snow and ice warning has been issued for Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Leitrim, and Louth. This warning is in place from Saturday night until Sunday morning. Met Éireann has warned of poor visibility, icy stretches, and difficult travel conditions due to hail, sleet, and snow.

Travel Disruptions

The strong winds and wintry conditions are likely to cause significant travel disruptions. Roads, flights, and public transport could be affected, particularly in the western and northern parts of the country. Met Éireann has advised people to stay informed about the latest weather updates and to exercise caution while travelling.

Christmas Weather Outlook

Looking ahead to Christmas week, Met Éireann has provided a mixed forecast. While widespread snow is unlikely, there is a possibility of wintry showers and a sharp drop in temperatures after Christmas. High-pressure systems are expected to bring slightly warmer-than-average temperatures during the day, but cold, frosty nights with mist and fog are also anticipated.

Safety Precautions

Authorities are urging the public to take necessary precautions during this period of severe weather. The Irish Coast Guard has advised people to stay away from coastal areas due to the risk of wave overtopping and spray. Motorists are also advised to be cautious of fallen trees and icy roads.

Additional Details

The UK Met Office has also issued a Yellow wind warning for Antrim, Derry, Down, Fermanagh, and Tyrone, which is set to be valid from 7am until midnight on Saturday. This adds to the already extensive list of counties under weather alerts, highlighting the widespread nature of the impending storm.

Met Éireann has emphasised that the winds will be strongest on Saturday night into Sunday morning, with gusts potentially causing damage to property and infrastructure. Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable, with the possibility of wave overtopping and spray making conditions dangerous.

For those planning to travel over the weekend, it is advisable to check the status of flights and public transport services in advance. Many airlines and transport providers are expected to issue updates and advisories as the situation develops.

In terms of temperatures, December 2024 has been slightly warmer than average so far, with temperatures around 9°C. However, the forecast indicates a drop in temperatures as the month progresses, with the potential for frost and icy conditions, particularly at night.

The public is encouraged to prepare for the severe weather by securing outdoor items, ensuring vehicles are winter-ready, and having emergency supplies on hand. Community support is also vital, with neighbours urged to check on vulnerable individuals who may need assistance during the adverse weather.

Weather Warnings and Impact

Met Éireann has issued red weather warnings for Cork and Galway, indicating the highest level of alert due to the severe conditions expected in these areas. Orange warnings are in place for several other counties, including Donegal, Kerry, and Mayo. These warnings highlight the potential for significant disruption, including power outages, travel delays, and property damage. The red warnings are expected to remain in effect until 10am, while the orange warnings will lift by noon.

The storm has brought torrential rain and winds gusting close to 110 km/h overnight. Rivers in several counties, including Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Galway, and Mayo, have broken their banks, leading to road closures and further travel disruptions. The Road Safety Authority has advised motorists to avoid any travel during the storm window. Public transport across Ireland has been heavily impacted, with numerous Iarnród Éireann and Bus Éireann services either delayed or cancelled. The Green Party has cancelled an election event in Dublin due to the effects of the storm.

Power Outages

Storm Bert has left nearly 60,000 homes and businesses without power across Ireland. The worst-hit areas include Cork, Galway, and Donegal, where fallen trees and downed power lines have caused widespread outages. Emergency crews are working tirelessly to restore electricity, but the ongoing severe weather conditions are making their efforts challenging. The ESB has confirmed that the number of affected households could increase as the storm progresses.

Flooding Concerns

In West Cork, residents are particularly on edge as they recall the devastating floods caused by Storm Babet just last month. Business owners and homeowners in Bantry are relieved that the town has so far escaped major flooding, but the threat remains as heavy rainfall continues. In East Cork, areas like Midleton are still recovering from previous flood damage and are on high alert for any signs of rising water levels. Additionally, a landslide in a small Irish town has exacerbated the flooding situation, causing further damage and disruption. Rivers in several counties, including Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Galway, and Mayo, have broken their banks, leading to road closures and further travel disruptions.

Travel Disruptions

The storm has already caused significant travel disruptions. Flights have been cancelled, and there are reports of hazardous driving conditions due to fallen trees and debris on the roads. Public transport services are also experiencing delays, and authorities are advising people to avoid non-essential travel. Roads in several counties, including Kerry and Limerick, have been closed due to flooding. The Road Safety Authority has advised motorists to avoid any travel during the storm window, and numerous Iarnród Éireann and Bus Éireann services have been either delayed or cancelled.

Emergency Services and Public Safety

Emergency services are on high alert, responding to incidents and assisting those affected by the storm. The public is urged to stay indoors where possible and to secure any loose objects that could become dangerous in high winds. Met Éireann has also warned of the possibility of hail and isolated thunderstorms, which could exacerbate the situation. The Defence Forces have been deployed to assist with flood relief efforts in the most affected areas. Local authority crews in Cork and Galway are closely monitoring developments and are on standby to respond to any incidents as soon as it is safe to do so. The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management has stressed the importance of sheltering in place and avoiding travel during the red level warnings. The Irish Coast Guard has also issued a warning for people to stay away from coastal areas during this period.

Local authority crews in Cork and Galway are closely monitoring developments and are on standby to respond to any incidents as soon as it is safe to do so. The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management has stressed the importance of sheltering in place and avoiding travel during the red level warnings. The Irish Coast Guard has also issued a warning for people to stay away from coastal areas during this period.

Met Éireann has expanded the Status Orange wind warning to include counties Kerry, Clare, Galway, Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim, and Donegal. This warning will be in effect from midday to 8pm on Sunday, 20th October. Winds are expected to reach speeds of up to 130 kilometres per hour, which could lead to coastal flooding, large waves, and damage to power lines and structures. The high winds are also likely to cause significant disruption to transport and infrastructure, with fallen trees and debris potentially blocking roads and railways.

In addition to the wind warnings, a Status Yellow rain warning has been issued for Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow, Cork, Kerry, and Waterford. This warning is in place until 9am on Monday, 21st October. The combination of high winds and heavy rain is likely to cause difficult travelling conditions and potential power outages. The heavy rainfall could lead to localised flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and regions with poor drainage systems.

Local authorities and emergency services are on high alert, preparing for the storm’s impact. The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM) has been coordinating with Met Éireann and other stakeholders to monitor the situation closely. They have advised the public to stay away from coastal areas and to secure any loose objects that could become projectiles in high winds. Residents in vulnerable areas are being urged to prepare emergency kits, including essentials such as food, water, medications, and flashlights.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has also issued warnings to motorists, urging them to exercise extreme caution while driving. They recommend reducing speed, maintaining a greater distance from the vehicle in front, and being mindful of vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians. The RSA has also advised against unnecessary travel during the peak hours of the storm to minimise the risk of accidents.

Several events have been postponed due to the anticipated severe weather. Sporting events, including the Clare senior hurling final, the Galway senior hurling semi-finals, and the Mayo senior football final, have been rescheduled. Schools in the affected areas have been advised to remain closed on Monday, 21st October, to ensure the safety of students and staff. Public transport services, including buses and trains, are expected to experience delays and cancellations, with operators advising passengers to check for updates before travelling.

Businesses and homeowners in flood-prone areas, particularly in coastal regions, are being advised to take precautionary measures such as using sandbags to prevent flooding. Insurance companies have also issued reminders to policyholders to review their coverage and take necessary steps to protect their properties.

Community groups and local volunteers are mobilising to support vulnerable residents, particularly the elderly and those with mobility issues. Neighbours are being encouraged to check on each other and offer assistance where needed. Local councils have set up emergency shelters for those who may need to evacuate their homes due to flooding or structural damage.

The Irish Red Cross and other humanitarian organisations are on standby to provide aid and support in the aftermath of the storm. They are prepared to distribute emergency supplies and offer medical assistance to those affected by the severe weather.

For those wanting to keep a close eye on Storm Ashley’s progress, live trackers are available online. These trackers provide real-time updates on the storm’s path and intensity, helping residents stay informed and prepared. Met Éireann’s website and social media channels will also provide regular updates and safety advice.

As Storm Ashley approaches, it is crucial for everyone to stay updated with the latest weather reports and heed the advice of local authorities. Safety should be the top priority during this period of severe weather. Residents are encouraged to follow official guidance and take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.

The current weather outlook suggests that Ireland will experience a mix of heavy rain and strong winds. Met Éireann has not yet named the storm, but the forecast indicates that the conditions will remain volatile. The service has warned that the combination of these elements could lead to hazardous conditions, particularly in coastal areas.

The unsettled weather is expected to continue through the end of the week and into the weekend. Met Éireann has indicated that the conditions will remain volatile during this period, with a mix of heavy rain and strong winds likely to cause hazardous conditions, especially in coastal areas.

“Outbreaks of rain in most places for the rest of this evening, heavy and thundery at times, especially in the southeast, with the potential for localised flooding,” Met Éireann stated. The unsettled weather is expected to persist, with scattered showers and occasional sunny spells.

One of the primary concerns is the risk of flooding. Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable, with high tides and strong winds potentially exacerbating the situation. Met Éireann has advised residents in these areas to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions.

The forecast includes a chance of coastal flooding as temperatures are expected to reach up to 18°C. The combination of warm temperatures and heavy rainfall could lead to significant water accumulation, especially in low-lying areas.

While Northern Ireland is expected to escape the worst of the storm, yellow and amber weather warnings have been issued for the Republic of Ireland. These warnings highlight the potential for severe weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy rain, which could disrupt daily activities and pose risks to safety.

Met Éireann has urged the public to stay informed about the latest weather updates and to heed any warnings issued. The service recommends securing outdoor items, avoiding unnecessary travel, and preparing for possible power outages. In the event of flooding, residents are advised to move to higher ground and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.

Local authorities are also preparing for the storm, with emergency services on standby to respond to any incidents. The public is encouraged to report any hazards or flooding to the relevant authorities to ensure a swift response.

As the week progresses, Met Éireann will continue to monitor the weather conditions and provide updates as necessary. The service has emphasised the importance of staying informed and prepared, as the situation can change rapidly.

For the latest weather updates and safety information, residents are encouraged to visit the Met Éireann website and follow their social media channels.

Met Éireann has updated its warnings, issuing a new Status Yellow rain warning for counties Clare, Galway, Roscommon, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, and Westmeath. This warning will be in effect from 10 PM tonight until 4 AM Friday, with heavy rain expected to lead to localized flooding and difficult travel conditions. 

In addition, a Status Yellow wind warning has been issued for Munster, Wexford, Wicklow, Carlow, Kilkenny, Laois, Kildare, and Dublin. This warning will be in effect from midnight until 6 AM tomorrow. The forecaster has warned of “unseasonably strong and gusty south to southwest winds,” which could result in power outages, fallen trees, and coastal flooding due to very high tides. 

The strong winds and heavy rain are expected to cause significant disruption. Met Éireann has highlighted the risk of coastal flooding, wave overtopping, and power outages in the affected counties. The winds, which are expected to veer west to northwest, could also bring down trees and cause damage to property. 

Storm Lilian, named by the UK Met Office, is the 12th named storm of the current storm season. It is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to parts of the UK as well. Wind gusts of up to 96 km/h are widely forecast across northern parts of Britain overnight and into tomorrow morning, with a lower chance of up to 120 km/h winds in a smaller area. 

The last named storm to hit Ireland was Kathleen on April 6, which saw strong gale-force winds of up to 85 km/h. Earlier in the year, Storm Isha, classified as a “violent storm,” recorded gusts of 137 km/h at Mace Head in Co Galway. 

Residents in the affected areas are advised to take precautions and stay updated with the latest weather information. Met Éireann has urged people to secure outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay indoors during the peak of the storm. The public is also advised to stay away from coastal areas due to the risk of wave overtopping and coastal flooding. 

Keep an eye on weather updates and follow the advice of local authorities to stay safe during this severe weather event.