Met Éireann issue Status Orange weather warning for Clare

MET ÉIREANN have issued a Status Orange weather warning for county Clare.

The county is warned to expect strong to gale force westerly winds, in the wake of Storm Gerrit which brought heavy rainfall across Christmas and St Stephens's Day.

Coastal flooding is likely, coupled with spring tides.

The warning, issued this Wednesday morning for Clare and Galway, will be in place from 3pm Wednesday afternoon to 12am Thursday morning.

In a statement, Clare County Council has advised members of the public to exercise caution.

"The public are advised to stay away from coastal areas during this period. The Irish Coast Guard are appealing to people to “Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry”," the statement read.

Strong winds can make driving conditions hazardous, especially for the more vulnerable road users, e.g. cyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists and high sided vehicles. Road users should pay particular attention to the risk posed by fallen trees and flying debris.

Never drive through flooded roads, the depth of the water can be deceiving.

There are particular risks during storms on high ground and people are asked to avoid being outdoors at such locations.