The Chair of the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management has said conditions in red areas will be “extremely dangerous” and urged people to remain indoors until the warning expires.
Keith Leonard was speaking after a Status Red wind warning was issued for counties Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Clare and Galway as Storm Darragh approaches.
The Red warning will be in effect in Donegal, Leitrim and Sligo from 11pm tonight until 3am tomorrow and in Mayo, Clare and Galway from 10pm until 3am.
Met Éireann says such warnings are ‘rare, extremely dangerous and destructive’.
Mr Leonard advised anyone heading out to a Christmas party tonight to be aware that public transport services may be affected.
“I certainly think there’s a possibility that services could be cancelled or curtailed across the country,” he said.
“Definitely in the red areas there won’t be any public transport but even in some of the orange areas.”
Mr Leonard advised people to keep their phones charged and visit vulnerable neighbours before the storm hits.
He said the NDFEM will meet again at around 2.30pm to get an update.
“There is always the potential for any of those warnings to be upgraded.
“It’s very important to keep on top of that, particularly for anyone who has any plans to travel today or tomorrow at any stage.”
During this period of inclement weather, the public are urged to exercise extreme caution and only travel if it is absolutely essential. All road users should be aware of the potential for hazardous travelling conditions. Motorists should slow down and be aware of the dangers of fallen trees and debris. High sided vehicles, cyclists and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable during this time
The public is reminded of the danger of fallen trees as it may be the case that there could be electricity wires tangled up with the tree that will pose a risk to life – contact ESB Networks at 1800 372 999. Use the PowerCheck App to check for reconnection times if your electricity is cut.
Updates on the status of impacts of the storm in your area can be found on DCC’s social media channels. The public can also receive free email and text updates on road closures by signing up to MapAlerter.ie.
Donegal County Council can be contacted during normal business hours on 074 91 53900 and in the event of an out-of-hours emergency the Council’s Road Service/Housing Department can be contacted on 074 91 72288. For emergencies requiring the assistance of the Fire Service call 999 or 112.
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