Galway woke up this morning after a night of high winds and heavy rainfall lashed the west coast as Storm Ellen struck the country with full force.
Campers and those in caravans along exposed areas of the coast were advised yesterday afternoon to make alternative arrangements for the duration of the storm which struck at 9pm last night and was still blowing hard until 6am today (Thursday ).
The Status Orange wind warning issued by Met Eireann applies until midday today. The extent of the damage caused by the overnight gales and potential flooding is only becoming apparent this morning, but crews from the city and county councils are on standby to deal with any emergencies that may arise.
Carparks in Salthill were closed yesterday afternoon and will remain closed until the warning has been lifted, due to potential coastal flooding.
City council crews onsite from 5am this morning
Although the worst of the winds passed over last night, Met Eireann say there will still be strong gales through today and tomorrow.
Galway City Council crews were on standby overnight and were onsite across the city from 5am today for any potential flooding or wind damage. The ouncil’s Severe Weather Assessment Team met yesterday morning to discuss the potential impact of the storm and their crews have been out on the country’s roads and coasts since early this morning.
The public were last evening advised to avoid coastal routes, to make alternative route plans where possible, and to avoid making unnecessary journeys. Members of the public should not visit coastal areas to view the storm conditions as this is considered extremely dangerous.
High risk of flying debris
The public are also advised to avoid camping due to the storm conditions and make alternative arrangements for the duration of Storm Ellen.
With trees in full leaf impact could have been significant with damaging winds, heavy rain, and large waves along the coast. Due to strong winds overland, high, potentially dangerous, waves can occur on lakes as well as along coasts and over high ground.
There still remains a high risk of flying debris, fallen trees and powerlines. The public are requested to ensure that garden furniture, bins, and other objects in their gardens and around their properties are secure.
For up to date reports on storm damage, on road closures, you can follow the Galway Advertiser’s Facebook and twitter pages, as well as the City’s Council’s twitter feed @GalwayCityCo or the County Council’s @GalwayCoCo. You can also see Met Eireann updates at www.met.ie Galway County Council, County Hall - office hours (9am – 5pm ) 091-509000 Out of Hours Number is 091-509069 For emergencies please contact the National Emergency Services at 999 and 112.
