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THE Kerry Local Emergency Coordination Group met again tonight at County Buildings in Tralee to discuss Storm Ophelia and the Code Level Red weather warning for Kerry which is now in place from the earlier time of 6AM on Monday to 12am on Tuesday.
Earlier advice issued still applies with the following updates in the context of anticipated hurricane-force winds:
• People in Kerry are advised NOT to travel and remain indoors during the period in which the Status Red weather warning is in place – from 6am on Monday to 12am on Tuesday. High-sided vehicles should not travel.
• The Council is asking people to completely avoid exposed coastal and upland areas including beaches and cliffs and not to risk their own safety.
• It is likely that there will be storm surges in tidal areas. Sandbags have been placed at a number of locations around the county on a precautionary basis.
• People are advised and encouraged to check their own property early tonight and ensure that steps are taken to secure any loose objects on their property, for example, garden furniture, wheelie bins, etc., that could be damaged, or if blown, could cause significant damage, during the storm. We also ask that you check in on your elderly and vulnerable relatives/neighbour who may not be in a position to secure their property.
• It is envisaged that there will be very significant damage caused by violent and destructive winds, especially in terms of fallen branches and trees, with a strong likelihood of loss of electricity to a substantial number of homes and businesses. People should make appropriate arrangements with an expectation that electricity outages could last a number of days e.g. charging of mobile phones, laptops, torches etc.
• Kerry County Council Civic Amenity Sites as well as amenities like Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre, Blennervile Windmill, Kerry County Museum, Killarney Sports and Leisure Centre and all similar facilities are closed. Kerry Motor Tax Office will be closed on Monday.
• An emergency contact number is available on 066 7183588 for use in an emergency where the assistance of Kerry County Council is required. Life-threatening emergencies should be reported to the emergency services on 999 and 112.
Kerry County Council is asking people to stay tuned to local media and to follow its social media accounts for updates. Information is also available on alerts.kerrycoco.ie. and on the main Kerry County Council website www.kerrycoco.ie
Would you not advise the town businesses to close aswell tomorrow as this could be dangerous for staff and shoppers.