Met Eireann has issued a STATUS RED weather warning for Galway.
The forecaster is warning that ex-Hurricane Ophelia is expected to bring severe winds and storm conditions from Monday.
It’s advising that mean wind speeds in excess of 80km/h and gusts in excess of 130km/h are to be expected.
It further warns that the storm has the potential to cause structural damage and disruption, as well as dangerous marine conditions and potential flooding.
The status red weather alert is in place for Galway, Mayo, Clare, Cork and Kerry and is valid from 9am on Monday until 3am on Tuesday.
AA Ireland is advising motorists to prepare for hazardous driving conditions.
“Whether Ireland feels the full force of Ophelia or not it’s important for motorists to prepare themselves for the worst. Stormy conditions are a real danger as not only do gale force winds make maintaining control of the vehicle more difficult, but heavy rainfall can also greatly increase your stopping distance. For example, a car travelling at 120kph can take more than 170 metres to come to a stop in wet and windy conditions,” Conor Faughnan, AA Director of Consumer Affairs warned.
This kind of weather can also really impact on a driver’s visibility so it’s important to drive with extra caution and be on the lookout for vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians who opt to brave the stormy conditions.”
In particular, the AA is warning drivers to exercise caution when driving on motorways as sudden gusts of wind can make what are normally Ireland’s safest roads very hazardous. Strong gusts of wind combined with heavy rain and road spray from other vehicles severely reduces driver visibility and also impacts on the driver’s ability to maintain control of the car.
“With visibility likely to be poor, motorists need to slow down and drive at a suitable speed for the conditions as doing so not only gives you more time to react but also reduces your risk of being blown off-course by wind.
Meanwhile, the AA is also advising home-owners in areas likely to experience stormy weather to prepare themselves and their homes accordingly. Among the most important steps for home-owners to take if a storm is forecast in their area is to check their roof for loose tiles and prepare their property accordingly.
“As Ophelia is the first severe weather event we’ll have encountered this year, homeowners may not be fully prepared for the potential heavy rainfall and risk of flooding. If possible, we’d recommend that homeowners clear out their gutters and trim any small trees around their property to avoid having their property damaged by water or debris.”
“Similar to preparing an emergency kit to have in your car, home-owners are advised to put together a home storm kit containing necessary medication, emergency telephone numbers, a first-aid kit, a torch, and a camera to photograph any damage to ensure they are prepared for the worst.”
Advice from the Department of Education to schools is to “consider not opening” in the event of a Status Red warning. Therefore, expect confirmation of schools closing/opening later today (Saturday) or on Sunday.
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