Ireland is to be hit by a major storm over the next 24-48 hours, which is expected to lead to severe flooding and extensive structural damage in areas, according to a Met Éireann warning issued last night.
As much as 80 millimetres of rain is expected to fall in parts of south Leinster and Munster, leading to flooding in many areas. Other parts of the country are likely to see almost 50 millimetres of rain fall before Friday. Severe flooding throughout the country is anticipated as a result of the ground being already heavily saturated.
Winds are to reach as high as 50 miles per hour, with gusts of up to 80 miles per hour expected in some parts of the country. Rough seas and high tides will lead to coastal flooding, particularly in the south and east. Many public transport routes are likely to be disrupted.Iarnród Éireann said that while every effort was being made to ensure a full service today and tomorrow, rail lines, particularly those running close to the coast, could be affected.
The Health and Safety Authority issued a warning to farmers and those in the building industry to be extra vigilant when working at heights in high winds. The authority has urged construction contractors to check safety measures on sites as a matter of urgency and to ensure, in particular, that scaffolding, hoarding, gates and temporary structures are stable. On farms, the authority warned, it was essential that farmers did not go onto shed roofs to inspect or tie down sheeting in windy conditions. A number of fatal accidents had occurred when farmers had fallen from roofs while attempting this.
The National Safety Council advised motorists to travel only if necessary and to be alert for fallen trees and debris on the road. Irish Water Safety warned about the risks of moving around in flood conditions.