Storm Lorenzo: Be responsible in extreme weather conditions

Just like Brexit, Storm Lorenzo is on the way. And, just like Brexit, wishing it away will not cut the mustard.

Met Éireann has warned of very wet and stormy conditions over parts of the country today and tomorrow as the hurricane tracks its away across the Atlantic from the Azores.

Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy convened a meeting of the National Emergency Co-ordination Group to make the necessary arrangements to limit potential damage. Mr Murphy said every local authority has been contacted to ask them to monitor Met Éireann’s forecasts, and prepare for storm impacts by activating crisis management and local co-ordination arrangements.

Those are all very sensible and necessary preparations but we cannot rely solely on government agencies. Individuals must take responsibility, too. That involves readying your home or business for storm surges, keeping children safe and looking out for elderly or vulnerable neighbours.

Hope for the best but be prepared for the worst. “Bí ullamh”, as they say in the Scouts.