Ireland is on high alert as Storm Eowyn approaches, with forecasters warning of "extremely destructive" winds reaching speeds of up to 130 km/h, accompanied by heavy rainfall and snowfall in some regions. The storm is expected to create "danger to life" conditions beginning Thursday night and lasting into Friday.
Widespread Weather Warnings Issued
Met Éireann has issued a series of weather alerts, including a top-level Status Red warning for 22 counties. Initially applied to four counties, the alert was expanded this afternoon to encompass nearly all of Ireland, except for Waterford, Kilkenny, Carlow, and Wexford, which remain under a Status Orange warning. While less severe, the Orange alert still carries significant risks.
The Status Red warnings take effect at staggered times starting at 2 a.m. Friday.
Impact on Schools, Workplaces, and Public Services
The National Emergency Co-ordination Group convened today to assess the developing situation and confirmed that all schools, early learning centers, childcare facilities, and higher education institutions in affected counties will remain closed for the duration of the alert. These closures will apply to institutions in the following counties: Cavan, Clare, Cork, Donegal, Dublin, Galway, Kerry, Kildare, Laois, Leitrim, Limerick, Longford, Louth, Mayo, Meath, Monaghan, Offaly, Roscommon, Sligo, Tipperary, Westmeath, and Wicklow.
Employers in areas under a Status Red warning have been urged to allow employees to work from home wherever possible.
A government spokesperson emphasized the seriousness of the situation:
"A Status Red severe weather warning signifies ‘shelter in place.’ Residents in affected areas should remain indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and take appropriate measures to protect themselves and their properties. Only emergency service personnel, as directed by their employers, should leave home for work during this period. Widespread disruptions to public services are expected."
Severe Conditions Expected
Liz Coleman, Met Éireann’s Deputy Head of Forecasting, outlined the storm's potential impact:
"Storm Éowyn will bring wet and very windy conditions on Friday, particularly in western and northwestern areas. Dangerous traveling conditions are anticipated, with the likelihood of trees downed, power outages, and wave overtopping during high tide. Localized flooding is also expected due to heavy rain and snowmelt."
Status Orange wind warnings are anticipated as a minimum in many areas, with monitoring ongoing for any changes. Met Éireann continues to collaborate with the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM) and other stakeholders to ensure timely updates.
Further Weather Systems to Follow
While Storm Eowyn is expected to abate by Saturday, another low-pressure system is forecast to bring impactful winds and additional rainfall on Sunday. However, this remains under close observation, with further updates to follow as the situation develops.
Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and adhere to all safety recommendations.
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