Donegal is on high alert after Met Éireann issued Status Orange and Yellow wind warnings as Storm Barra is expected reach land tomorrow.
Wind and rain is already increasing this morning.
While Donegal has been issued with a Yellow alert warning, this could be increased later today.
Donegal County Council is expected to issue warnings to the public later today.
The forecaster said winds will be strongest in western coastal counties with severe or damaging gusts possible and heavy rain will bring localised flooding.
An Orange warning will come into effect for Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Clare and Galway at 6am on Tuesday morning and will remain in place until 6am the following day.
The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management’s Crisis Management Team held a virtual coordination meeting yesterday with Met Éireann.
Other departments to attend included the Office of Public Works, Local Authority Severe Weather Assessment Teams and Government Departments and agencies.
In a statement, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage said there is an expectation that Met Éireann will issue further warnings in advance of Storm Barra as the likely impacts become clearer.
It said the public should monitor Met Éireann for updated warnings and information and heed local authority advice during this time.
“Local authorities have activated their Crisis Management Teams and Local Co-ordination Groups and coastal flood defences are being put in place,” the statement added.
People are being advised to stay away from all coastal areas, and drivers should slow down and be aware of the dangers of fallen trees and debris, a statement said.
The public are warned electricity wires are always live and never approach them.
Anyone who sees fallen or damaged wires should keep clear and phone ESB Networks immediately on 1800 372 999/021 238 2410.
