People are being advised to avoid any unnecessary travel and stay indoors in many parts this afternoon as Storm Barney hits.
A Status Orange wind warning is in place for Galway until 9pm.
Met Éireann has issued its second highest warning, urging people to be prepared for gusts of up to 130 kilometres per hour in Galway, Clare, Kerry, Limerick, Wicklow and Dublin.
West to southwest winds will reach mean speeds of between 65km/h and 80km/h.
The Loughrea to Oranmore road through Craughwell has re-opened to two-way traffic.
A stop-go system was put in place near the Dunkellin Bridge last evening, but the water levels have now dropped and the road is now passable in both directions.
Galway County Council says it will keep the situation under review and issue further updates when necessary.
Local authorities are asking people to stay indoors and to make sure that bins and loose objects are secure.
Forecaster with Met Eireann Willemien Phelan says Storm Barney will bring damaging gusts.
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