Weather Warning Issued By MET

The Irish meteorological agency have issued a weather warning for today, with gusts reaching up to 140km/hr threatening some areas of the state.

Met Eireann said the ferocity of some the westerly winds could lead to structural damage, with winds expected to reach their highest speeds in exposed areas such as Connacht and Ulster.

The weather warning from Met Eireann said: "Stormy conditions will become widespread over Ireland later this morning and during the afternoon. Stormy conditions will continue this evening but will moderate from the west overnight.

High seas on Atlantic coasts are also expected while gale force to storm force winds are predicted to batter the Irish Sea coasts and the Irish Sea, with winds occasionally reaching "violent" storm force on coasts from Slyne Head to Erris Head to Malin Head.

In response, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has issued its own warning, asking road users to take extra care in these strong winds.

The authority asked drivers to beware of objects being blown out onto the road and to "expect the unexpected".

"Watch out for falling/fallen debris on the road and vehicles veering across the road. Control of a vehicle may be affected by strong cross winds. High sided vehicles and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to strong winds."

RSA also advised drivers to allow extra space between you and vulnerable road users such as cyclists and motorcyclists, to drive with dipped headlights at all times, and to monitor radio weather broadcasts while traveling.

The RSA also advised pedestrians & cyclists to wear bright clothing with reflective armbands or a reflective belt and to take extra care when near traffic or crossing the road in extremely windy conditions as a sudden gust of wind could blow you into the path of an oncoming vehicle.

The RSA concluded asking those planning a journey to consider postponing their trip unless it is "absolutely necessary".

(DW/KMcA)