merrion street

The Irish Coast Guard has warned the public of the dangers of severe weather as high winds, heavy downpours and the potential for spot flooding are forecast by Met Eireann for today. The forecast is to be extremely windy with gusts of 90-120km per hour and strong to gale force winds and thundery downpours are likely. Rain is expected to be heaviest over Connaught and Ulster and a small craft warning is in effect.

The public is strongly advised not to go out on exposed coasts, cliffs, piers, harbour walls, beaches, promenades or any other coastal areas during the inclement weather. Huge waves can be whipped up by high seas. These waves can pose hazards to anyone close to the shoreline. In coastal waters, rough seas often cause fishing vessels to capsize.

Remember to monitor weather broadcasts when travelling and heed the advice of the RSA on road use during severe weather and high winds.

Specific advice from the Coast Guard today is:

Stay away from the shoreline and do not engage in water sports Owners of small vessels and fishing vessels in coastal waters should seek shelter and secure them properly with moorings.

If you do see someone in difficulty in the sea, on the shore, cliffs, lakes or rivers dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard. "