Yellow warnings issued in eight counties ahead of Storm Floris

Met Éireann has issued several Status Yellow weather alerts across Ireland in anticipation of Storm Floris, which is expected to bring disruptive weather conditions early next week. The national forecaster is warning of intense winds and heavy rain that could affect travel, outdoor activities, and public safety.

Weather Warnings Issued for Multiple Counties

Met Éireann has activated a series of Status Yellow warnings ahead of Storm Floris’s arrival late Sunday night into Monday. The first wind warning covers Clare, Galway, Mayo, and Sligo, taking effect from 2:00 a.m. on Monday and lasting until 1:00 p.m. A second wind alert applies to Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, and Leitrim from 4:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. the same day.

Additionally, a Status Yellow rain warning has been issued for Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, and Sligo. This advisory will be active from 2:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. Monday.

According to Met Éireann, the storm will bring “very strong and blustery southwest winds veering westerly,” with damaging gusts likely. Periods of heavy rain are also expected, along with the risk of thunderstorms.

Public Safety Concerns and Potential Disruption

The forecaster warned that the approaching weather system could have a range of hazardous effects. These include dangerous driving conditions, falling trees, flying debris, and localized flooding. There is also a risk of power outages, wave overtopping in coastal areas, and structural damage due to the wind intensity.

Because the storm coincides with a Bank Holiday weekend, the risks are considered elevated. Met Éireann has highlighted that many people will be attending outdoor events, some of which involve camping. The increased exposure to the elements heightens the danger, particularly in remote or poorly sheltered areas.

Forecaster Andrew Doran-Sherlock emphasized the need for the public to remain weather-aware. “As it is a Bank Holiday weekend with numerous outdoor events scheduled, including those that involve camping, more people will be at a greater risk of exposure than would normally be the case,” he said. He urged the public to monitor forecast updates and adjust their plans accordingly.

UK Also Bracing for Storm Floris

Storm Floris has been officially named by the UK Met Office, marking it as the sixth named storm of the 2024/2025 season. The agency has issued a Yellow Wind Warning covering large portions of northern UK, including Scotland, Northern Ireland, north Wales, and northern England. This alert will be in place from 6:00 a.m. on Monday to 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday.

The UK Met Office echoed similar warnings, citing the potential for strong winds, travel disruptions, and minor infrastructure damage.

Stay Informed and Prepared

Authorities on both sides of the Irish Sea are advising people to remain vigilant and take appropriate precautions. With high winds, heavy rain, and a greater number of people outdoors due to the holiday, the conditions could turn dangerous quickly. Those planning to travel or attend public events should stay updated with the latest forecasts and consider contingency plans.

Storm Floris marks a continuation of a particularly active storm season, and both Irish and UK forecasters are encouraging residents to prioritize safety above all else.