UPDATE (7am): The latest updates on ex-hurricane Ophelia show the path of the storm has shifted and Donegal, Galway, Mayo and Sligo will be the worst affected.
Met Eireann say the most severe time when winds are at their peak in Donegal is from 3pm onwards.
Ex-Hurricane Ophelia is forecast to track directly over Ireland during daytime today and every county is under a status red wind warning.
Violent and destructive gusts are forecast with all areas at risk. Winds are forecast at maximums of 120 – 140km/h. Heavy rain and strong storm surges may bring flooding in coastal areas.
From 7am the coastal areas of Counties Cork and Kerry are most at risk as the storm moves upwards.
Eastern counties will be hit in the afternoon before the most severe gusts strike Donegal after 3pm.
There is potential risk to lives, warns Met Eireann, and people are advised to take all warnings seriously.
Gardaí have asked people to avoid all unnecessary travel during peak hours.
AA Roadwatch warn motorists to avoid travelling if it can be avoided, especially on bikes and motorbikes. Wind-blown debris is likely to be a problem on secondary roads in particular. Keep in mind that high-sided vehicles are especially vulnerable on open roads.
The National Emergency Coordination Group has put a Red Weather Alert in place for the entire country.
The Army has been placed on standby amid growing fears within that communities could be severely impacted.
All schools, colleges universities and educational institutions will be closed today.
The HSE have cancelled all outpatient appointments at Sligo University Hospital and Letterkenny University Hospital.
Donegal Daily will bring you updated cancellations as we get them.
Featured image via the National Hurricane Center Miami
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