Storm-force winds will hit the country later today, with structural damage and flooding predicted, particularly along the north-west and western coasts, writes Alison Healy
Met Éireann has issued a severe weather warning and forecasts gusts of up to 100 m.p.h. in exposed parts of the west and south this evening. Gusts of up to 80 m.p.h. were predicted for the rest of the country.
There will be widespread rain this morning, adding to the risk of flooding in waterlogged areas.
The gale-force winds will start building up from about midday and are expected to continue until midnight.
Ms Evelyn Cusack of Met Éireann said a combination of very high tides and onshore gales would increase the risk of coastal flooding. The Shannon estuary and other coastal areas in Munster, Connacht and Ulster would be most at risk, Ms Cusack said.
"We can expect some structural damage in areas, with further fallen trees," she added.
Iarnród Éireann track-inspection staff will be monitoring areas at risk of fallen trees today, according to its spokesman, Mr Barry Kenny.
Yesterday, Iarnród Éireann re- opened a section of track between Longford and Dromod after flooding had caused the closure. The Camolin river burst its banks on Sunday morning and flooded the track.
Stena Line and Irish Ferries have advised passengers to phone their helplines before travelling, to ensure that their sailings have not been disrupted. The 24-hour Stena Line number is 01-2047799. The Irish Ferries helpline is 01-6610715.
An Aer Lingus spokeswoman said high winds might disrupt some flights, but passengers should check in as normal.
Aer Arann advised passengers to contact their information line (0818 210 210) before travelling. Stormy conditions caused the cancellation of about 10 Aer Arann flights on Sunday, and the diversion of others.
Meanwhile, hundreds of passengers were stranded at Shannon Airport on Sunday night after bad weather caused the diversion of 23 flights from Dublin, Cork and Knock airports. Some diverted passengers had delays of up to 10 hours in getting coaches to ferry them back to their original destinations.
Irish Water Safety has warned people to be on the alert for dangerous flood conditions.
Mr John Leech, Irish Water Safety's chief executive, said motorists needed to be particularly vigilant to avoid flooded areas on roads and near rivers.
He also warned people crossing flooded areas that fast-moving water could exert pressure of up to four times its speed against a person's legs.
Yesterday, roads were closed in parts of Galway, Clare, Kerry and Monaghan due to flooding.
