Source: NOAA – Times are IST -5 hours.
Sunday 15th October 2017
Met Eireann is holding discussions with the National Hurricane Centre, NOAA in relation to Hurricane Ophelia. The forecast discussion is available here: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/text/refresh/MIATCDAT2+shtml/150900.shtml
The public are being urged to take the warnings seriously, as Ophelia is now set to be much more dangerous than originally expected.
Update from Met Eireann 13:55:
Hurricane Ophelia is expected to transition to a post-tropical storm as it approaches our shores on Monday bringing severe winds and stormy conditions. Mean wind speeds in excess of 80 km/h and gusts in excess of 130km/h are expected, potentially causing structural damage and disruption, with dangerous marine conditions due to high seas and potential flooding. (Current forecasts predict, in the South and along the East coast, wind values are likely to be in the high end of the orange scale but all parts of the country will be at risk).
Valid from 09:01 Monday 16-October-2017 until 03:00 Tuesday 17-October-2017
Update from Met Eireann 14:30:
Rainfall Warning – Status Orange
Heavy rain at times on Monday with some local flooding, especially in coastal areas. 40+ mm possible.
Valid from 09:00 Monday 16-October-2017 until 21:00 Monday 16-October-2017
Update from Department of Education and Skills & Minister for Education, Richard Bruton 14:50:
Hurricane Ophelia is expected to transition to a post-tropical storm as it approaches our shores on Monday bringing severe winds and stormy conditions. Mean wind speeds in excess of 80 km/h and gusts in excess of 130km/h are expected, potentially causing structural damage and disruption, with dangerous marine conditions due to high seas and potential flooding.
Issued:
Sunday 15 October 2017 13:00
Valid:
Monday 16 October 2017 09:00 to Tuesday 17 October 2017 03:00
Saturday 14th October 2017
Met Éireann has issued a status RED warning for Cork.
- Forecasters are stating that ex-hurricane Ophelia is expected to bring severe winds and stormy conditions on Monday. Mean wind speeds in excess of 80 km/h and gusts in excess of 130km/h are expected, potentially causing structural damage and disruption, with dangerous marine conditions due to high seas and potential flooding.
Issued: Saturday 14 October 2017 12:00 Valid: Monday 16 October 2017 09:00 to Tuesday 17 October 2017 03:00 A red weather warning means there is a serious risk to life and property.
Heres our advice for staying safe during Storm Ophelia.
Prepare a storm kit that should include plenty of bottled water, non-perishable foods, blankets, jackets, hats and gloves in case of a power outage. Make sure all mobile phones and laptops are fully charged. Use flashlights if possible instead of candles due to the fire hazard. Have plenty of spare batteries of all shapes and sizes. Another source of light that can be used are glow sticks which can be bought in discount shops these can glow for hours. Unplug anything electrical from the sockets as there could be a power surge and remember power surge protectors sometimes fail. Do not drive through standing water, even on familiar streets. Often the water is deeper than you think and can cause your car to stall, trapping you in rising water. Water can damage a vehicle’s engine, electrical system, and interior, and flood currents can also carry your vehicle away. storms often knock down power lines, and you should never drive over them or near them. Don’t assume your car will protect you from such electrical hazards. You can get stuck trying to drive through downed or dangling wires, and while that won’t necessarily injure you, it can make it dangerous or impossible for rescuers to reach you. Secure all fences, gates or posts on your property. Loose objects such as garden furniture, bikes, toys, trampolines, and ladders must be locked away or safely secured as these items can become flying debris and damage your home or your neighbours homes. Reach out to elderly neighbours, or relatives who may not have someone close by all the time to ensure they are safe. A quick phone call could save a life! Keep your car in a driveway or an area within a safe distance of trees. Contact your Local Authority to check if you can cut down or remove parts of any trees you feel could cause damage in a storm. Your home insurance may cover things you don’t realise as standard. Check your policy document so you are aware of what you are eligible for and don’t forget to take photos of any damage after the storm.