A storm’s brewing... & it’s bigger than Ophelia

Ireland in path of ‘tropical cyclone’

A DRAMATIC satellite image shows a storm stronger than Ophelia may be heading for Ireland next month.

A US weather expert shared a picture of a predicted “tropical cyclone” in the Northern Atlantic.

They claimed it is likely to form over the next 14 days with a central pressure as strong as 943millibars.

If this measurement is correct, this would make it a category four hurricane – with five being the most severe.

In comparison Storm Ophelia, which battered Ireland and claimed three lives last October, was a category three.

The Joint Cyclone Centre in Florida wrote on Twitter: “Over the next 14 days, we do not normally see the weird tropical cyclones as strong as #Ophelia form in this part of the Northern Atlantic with a central pressure of 943mb, as the same of the equivalent in category four hurricanes.” Met Eireann said its does not give long-range forecasts and therefore cannot confirm this possible storm.

Its current seven-day prediction is for mostly warm and dry weather with temperatures soaring to 21C as high pressure develops over Ireland. It wrote on its website: “Mainly dry and bright on Thursday with good sunshine at times and just the occasional shower.

“Cloud will increase in the south-west of the country during the day with outbreaks of rain to follow later. Highs of 15C to 18C in light breezes.

“Cloudy and humid on Friday with scattered outbreaks of rain and drizzle through the day. Highs of 17C to 19C. “Mainly dry and bright with good sunshine and light breezes on Saturday with temperatures reaching 19C. “Outbreaks of rain developing over western counties through the day on Sunday but staying dry in the east until evening. Highs of 18C-21C. “Early next week will bring dry weather as high pressure develops.

“A little cool on Monday in northerly breezes but temperatures up to 19C by Thursday.”