Storm Lorenzo - Flooding, power outages, fallen trees and damage to property can be expected

Schools in Galway, Mayo, Clare, Cork, Kerry and Limerick are being advised to “err on the side of caution” and close on Friday if they feel there is a risk to students from the impact of Storm Lorenzo.

Met Éireann has announced that a status orange wind warning will be in place for these counties from 6pm on Thursday to 3am on Friday morning.

In a statement, the Department of Education said schools, third level colleges and further education centres in areas affected by a status orange alert should remain vigilant and keep abreast of any updates from Met Éireann and other authorities.

“In all events, and if in any doubt, schools and other education settings should err on the side of caution,” the department said.

“Schools are empowered to make closure decisions if, in their judgment in the interests of the safety of the school community, it is prudent to do so.

A status orange wind warning has been issued for six counties and a status yellow warning nationwide between tomorrow evening and Friday morning, when Storm Lorenzo is expected to make landfall.

The orange warning for Galway, Mayo, Clare, Cork, Kerry and Limerick will be in place from 6pm tomorrow to 3am on Friday.

Met Éireann said southwesterly winds veering westerly will reach mean speeds 65 to 80km/h, with gusts generally of 100-130km/h, higher in coastal regions.

Storm surges will produce coastal flooding and damage, it said.

We will provide regular updates on the storm's advance and carry and advice or warnings issued by Meath Co Council and Emergency Services.

The weather event is expected to bring storm surges and heavy rainfall

The storm is moving north east towards Ireland and the UK

The exact track Lorenzo will take over Ireland is still subject to change. The most severe winds associated with Lorenzo are likely in Atlantic coastal parts on the southern flank of the storm, however strong winds are possible in all areas.

Met Eireann is warning that the biggest impact of the storm will most likely be the falling of trees, particularly those still in leaf. In addition, some trees may be compromised due to saturated soils at the moment, and with more rain forecast with Storm Lorenzo some disruption due to falling trees/branches is likely. Some surface flooding is possible. A dangerous Storm Surge will occur due to a combination of:

Very low pressure
Onshore storm-force winds
High tides
High sea swell
Some coastal inundations and damage will occur.