Storm Barra is on the way: What do you need to know?

By Ciara Tyrrell

Met Eireann has issued status red and orange wind warnings ahead of Storm Barra which is expected to hit in Ireland on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Red wind warnings have been issued for counties Cork, Kerry, and Clare tomorrow due to the fact that there are expected to be wind gusts of up to 130km/h which is expected to cause serious damage.

Storm Picture by DreamCatcher on Pixabay. License: Creative Common License

Orange wind warnings are also in place for many western counties and some eastern counties and Met Eireann says on its website that there is a “yellow wind warning covering the rest of the country”.

The following public safety advice has been advised by the Irish Coast Guard, Road Safety Authority, An Garda Siochana, and Local Authorities:

–    To stay away from all coastal areas for the duration of the Met Eireann warnings.

–    All road users should be aware of the hazardous traveling conditions, and only necessary journeys should be taken. Motorists should slow down and be aware of the dangers of fallen trees and debris. High sided vehicles are particularly vulnerable during this time.


–    As conditions will vary throughout the event, people need to take account of the local conditions and advice from their Local Authority.


–    The public are warned electricity wires are always live and to never approach them. If you see fallen or damaged wires, keep clear and phone ESB Networks immediately on 1800 372 999 or 021 238 2410.


–    Should red level warnings be issued, the public are advised to shelter in place for the duration of the warning.

Tanaiste, Leo Varadkar, had the following advise for the public on the ClaireByrne Live show.

In terms of Education, Simon Harris, Minister for Further and Higher Education advised that “any third level facility in a red alert or orange warning area should not open tomorrow”.

If you are the owner of any pets, Dogs Trust and Madra dog rescue are advising to keep the dogs and pets indoors during the storm and if they are in need to go toilet to bring them out on the lead.

And whatever you do, don’t forget the wise words of Teresa Mannion; to not take unnecessary journeys. 

To keep up to date with Storm Barra go to met.ie

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