Urgent Weather Alerts: Storm Floris to Hit Galway This Weekend

UPDATE: Storm Floris is on track to unleash heavy wind and rain on Galway starting tonight, as Met Éireann has issued urgent weather warnings for the region. The severe weather is expected to begin late Sunday night and continue into Monday, creating hazardous conditions across the west coast.

Officials warn that a deepening low-pressure system will bring relentless rain and strong winds, with two status yellow weather warnings now in effect for Galway. The wind alert is active from 2 AM to 1 PM on Monday, while the rain warning will be in place from 2 AM to 10 AM on the same day. Travelers and outdoor enthusiasts are advised to exercise extreme caution as these conditions could disrupt plans and pose risks.

According to Met Éireann Forecaster Andrew Doran-Sherlock, “Storm Floris will bring a spell of wet and unseasonably windy weather, particularly for northwestern areas.” The forecast predicts strong southwest winds accompanied by heavy rain and potential thunderstorms. This combination creates dangerous travel conditions, with fallen trees and flying debris posing risks to both people and property.

As many people are expected to participate in outdoor activities during the Public Holiday Weekend, the likelihood of exposure to severe weather conditions increases significantly. “While we are in a period of neap tides, strong onshore winds and high waves may cause wave overtopping in low-lying coastal areas,” Doran-Sherlock cautioned.

The potential for flooding is also a major concern. Heavy downpours and wave overtopping could lead to significant water accumulation in vulnerable areas. Residents are urged to stay alert and monitor weather updates closely.

Officials emphasize the importance of heeding local authorities’ advice and considering the warnings in any outdoor plans. With the event’s timeline now within reach of high-resolution forecasting models, the full extent of the impacts will become clearer as conditions develop.

As Storm Floris approaches, it’s critical to remain informed about changing weather patterns and take appropriate precautions. Stay tuned for updates as this situation unfolds, and share this information with friends and family to keep everyone safe.