A severe weather warning for Ireland has been issued after forecasters predicted winds will reach storm force this afternoon. Met Eireann warned this morning that stormy conditions will become widespread over Ireland later this morning and during the afternoon. Stormy conditions will continue this evening but will moderate from the west overnight.
Gale force westerly winds will gust between 100 and 120 km/hr generally, but gusts of up to 140 km/hr are expected in exposed parts of Connacht and Ulster. These winds are likely to lead to some structural damage and will be accompanied by high seas on Atlantic coasts.
According to iWeather Online forecaster Peter O’Donnell: “Very strong and potentially damaging winds will affect western counties by midday and eastern Ireland by afternoon. This strong wind situation has slightly intensified since earlier this week.”
WIND SPEEDS:
- Connacht, Clare and Donegal -- WSW 60-100 mph in exposed locations, 50-80 mph inland. Potential for some local gusts to 120 mph.
- Kerry, Cork, Limerick and exposed higher elevation locations further east -- WSW 50-85 mph in most locations, potential for some local gusts to 100 mph.
- Dublin and Leinster, Midlands, southeast -- WSW 45-70 mph, possible gusts to 80 in a few spots.
- Ulster -- W 45-70 mph, possible gusts to 85 mph in exposed locations.
Mr. O’Donnell continued: “These winds are capable of blowing over large trees in a few places, bringing down tree branches quite widely and doing damage to wires and signs as well as roof tiles and poorly secured out-buildings. Would advise no road travel unless necessary and then with caution especially after dark. Strong winds will last from about mid-day to almost midnight. Also, watch for possible shoreline problems from waves crashing over seawalls and storm surge issues -- consult local forecasts from relevant authorities.”