*Doolin Cliffs. Photograph: George Karbus
An orange weather warning has been issued for Co Clare from 6pm on Thursday until 3am on Friday by Met Éireann.
South westerly winds will reach mean speeds of 65 to 80km/h with gusts generally of 100 to 130km/h which will be higher in coastal areas. Storm surges are expected to produce coastal flooding and damage.
Limerick, Cork and Kerry have also been issued with the orange weather warning. A status yellow wind and rainfall warning is also in place for the three counties and Clare, this is valid from 9am on Thursday until 6am on Friday.
Clare County Council have warned that the main impacts will be disruptive winds, falling trees and flooding. “The public are advised not to plan any unnecessary journeys for the duration of the status Orange warning. Clare County Council is urging motorists to drive with caution and to be alert for any debris on roads during Friday. In advance of the stormy weather members of the public are being encouraged to take advantage of the calm weather today to make secure garden items such as furniture and trampolines,” a spokeswoman for the local authority told The Clare Echo.
