Extremely windy conditions are expected throughout the country today, with some parts of the country to receive gusts of up to 130km/h.
Met Éireann issued an orange alert this morning, with gale force winds expected around the country. Particular emphasis has been put on Connacht and Donegal, which can expect wind speeds between 110 to 130km/h.
Munster, Leinster and the south of Ulster face winds between 90 to 110km/h. Met Éireann forecaster Eoin Sherlock said that this wind can cause some damage.
"If the ground is saturated, it can cause tree roots to move. It could also knock down electric wires," he said.
A yellow status was placed on the weather before 10am. This status asks people to "be aware" of poor weather conditions in their area. The current orange status advises people to "be prepared", as weather conditions have the capacity to impact significantly on people in the affected areas, according to the Met Éireann website.
Followed by today's windy weather, heavy wintry showers are expected tonight, with a likelihood of hail, sleet and snow developing. This is expected to continue until tomorrow morning. This will produce blizzard-like conditions, especially on higher ground.
The winter showers will become standard showers tomorrow evening, with temperatures increasing.
The Road Safety Authority is advising road users to take particular care on the roads. The authority is asking drivers to slow down, as it takes longer to stop a vehicle on wet roads. Drivers should also keep an eye out for falling debris and vehicles veering across the road.
Drivers are also asked to keep an eye out for black ice, which could make the road look as if it has been polished.
Pedestrians and cyclists are advised to wear bright, reflective clothing to ensure they are seen, as well as taking extra care when nearing traffic or crossing the road, as sudden gusts can blow people into the path of oncoming traffic.
More advice can be found in the RSA's publication 'Severe Weather Advice for Road Users'.