MET Eireann has updated its weather warning to include Kerry and the rest of Munster in the Status Orange area today.

The wind warning is for Munster, Leinster and south Galway. Storm Eleanor will move in off the Atlantic later this afternoon and will move very quickly across the country this evening.

Southwest to west winds of mean speeds 65 to 80 km/h, gusting to 110 to 130 km/h., are expected.

Continued below…

Very high seas along Atlantic coasts, with a risk of coastal flooding also. The warning is valid for a five hour period from 4pm until 9pm on Tuesday.

Kerry County Council management met this morning and has issued the following advisory:

·       It is anticipated at this stage that the worst of the storm will affect Kerry from 4pm to 7pm approximately and members of the public are advised to exercise care during this period and in coastal areas in particular.

·       Though rainfall amounts are expected to be relatively low, high tides and strong winds may lead to some flooding in coastal areas. Sandbags have this morning been made available in areas most prone to flooding.

·       Property owners should ensure they secure any loose items which would be susceptible to high winds, including outdoor decorations, and motorists should have regard to the possibility of fallen trees or debris on roads.

·       If a member of the public requires the assistance of Kerry County Council, they can contact the emergency contact line on 066 7183588.

This category of orange level weather warnings is for weather conditions which have the capacity to impact significantly on people in the affected areas.

The issue of an Orange level weather warning implies that all recipients in the affected areas should prepare themselves in an appropriate way for the anticipated conditions.