Katia to arrive with gale-force winds

THE tail end of Hurricane Katia is set to deliver violent gale-force gusts across the north and west coast of the country today.

Forecasters predicted extreme storm-force 11 winds and heavy rain, following the arrival of the weather system onto the Irish seaboard overnight.

Katia has been drifting northwards from off the south-west coast and will move towards Scotland once it passes through Ireland.

In the meantime, householders and motorists were bracing themselves for gale-force winds which could cause flooding, disrupt power supplies and bring down trees. Coastal communities were warned to be extra careful, especially given the additional risk of high seas.

Gusts of up to 130km/h are expected today, with the west and north due to be battered by the remnants of Hurricane Katia, which has crossed the Atlantic Ocean after wreaking havoc in the north-east of America.

Met Éireann warned there will also be exceptionally high seas along the western seaboard which, in conjunction with high spring tides and heavy showers, may cause coastal flooding in prone locations.

The storm is likely to pass relatively quickly and, by tonight, winds will have slackened off considerably.

AA Roadwatch advised motorists to take particular care on exposed roads, especially in the coastal counties of Connacht and Ulster, and in high-sided vehicles.

Elsewhere, the Irish Ferries Swift Sailings from Dublin to Holyhead have been cancelled because of conditions on the Irish sea.

Met Éireann also forecast strong south-west winds and there will also be a risk of isolated thunderstorms. Conditions have been made worse by heavy rain.

The Irish Coast Guardadvised the public to take care during the stormy conditions, particularly around the coast and in exposed areas. It urged people to avoid sea- or water-based activities and taking cliff walks alone. “Always let someone know when and where you are going, and when you are expected to return.”