Donegal residents warned to ‘shelter in place’ as Storm Amy prompts rare status red wind warning
People in Donegal have been warned to ‘shelter in place’ this afternoon after Storm Amy was upgraded to a very rate status red alert very high winds.
Met Éireann issued the alert for extremely strong and gusty southwest winds between 4pm and 6pm this afternoon.
Potential impacts include fallen trees, damage to power lines, dangerous travelling conditions, structural damage and wave overtopping.
Donegal is the only county to which the warning applies. After 6pm an orange warning for near gale force to gale force and very gusty southwest to west winds will remain in place in the county until 10pm on Friday night.
Across the border in Derry a similar amber warning is in effect.
Both Met Éireann and the Met Office have said very wind conditions will continue into Saturday.
In the North Translink have warned of the potential for travel disruption.
“During the Storm Amy weather warning, passengers are advised to leave extra time for journeys and to keep up to date with the latest travel information through Translink’s Journey Planner and social media channels.
“We are liaising with the Met Office and other organisations to enable us to make informed decisions about our services.
“We have teams on the ground to maintain services and keep passengers informed, as well as chainsaw crews to clear any debris potentially blocking the railway lines.
“If roads are closed due to flooding or fallen trees, buses may be subject to short notice adjustments or diversionary routes.
“Latest travel details available on the Translink Journey planner or visit www.translink.co.uk,” a spokesperson advised.