ISH’ GOING TO A WILD NIGHT
Warning over storm winds in excess of 100km/h set to batter country
MOTORISTS are being warned of hazardous driving conditions as Storm Isha is set to batter the country.
Met Eireann issued a Status Orange weather warning for the entire country predicting winds in excess of 100km per hour.
Forecasters warned strong gusts could cause fallen trees and other debris, damage to power lines, difficult road conditions and large coastal waves.
The wind warning comes into effect at 5pm today for Leinster, Munster, Connacht, Cavan and Monaghan lasting until 2am tomorrow.
A separate Status Orange wind warning has been issued for Donegal, valid from 5pm today until 5am tomorrow.
Forecasters said: “Storm Isha will bring a spell of very strong winds during Sunday evening into Monday.
“Disruption to travel and utilities is likely.”
Meanwhile, a Status Yellow wind warning remains in place for the entire country from 11am today until 4am tomorrow.
There is an extended Status Yellow wind warning for counties Clare, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo and Sligo until 12pm tomorrow.
The Road Safety Authority urged motorists to exercise extreme caution and slow down on motorways where there is a risk of aquaplaning.
The RSA said: “After going through water, drive slowly with your foot on the brake pedal for a short distance, this helps to dry the brakes.”
Cork County Council said its Severe Weather Assessment team were on standby and will continue to monitor the situation today.
The local authority advised all Leesiders: “Members of the public are advised to stay high, stay dry and stay away from the coast, rivers and lakes.”
The fresh weather warnings come just days after a cold snap which brought snow and saw temperatures dip to -8C.