Storm Ashley to Hit with Powerful Winds, Warnings Announced

Met Éireann has issued a Status Orange wind warning for County Mayo and County Galway in reaction to the anticipated arrival of Storm Ashley. 

Such weather events usually bring very strong and gusty southerly winds associated with high spring tides, and such situations can create hazards in these regions. The heightened risk period will see the Status Orange warning in place from 12 pm to 9 pm Sunday.

Storm Ashley is also causing a Status Yellow wind warning to cover the whole country from 10am on Sunday to midnight.

Effect of Storm Ashley on Counties Mayo and Galway

Coastal areas and communities in Counties Mayo and Galway are most at risk from the impact of Storm Ashley with strong winds and high spring tides expected. 

These conditions will lead to difficult travelling and especially so along the coast and in areas prone to flooding, Met Éireann warns. 

Strong winds and high tides can combine to make sea conditions dangerous to both recreational and commercial maritime activities.

Present Risks of Damage and Power Outages

Strong winds accompanying Storm Ashley not only disrupt travel, but also constitutes a major risk to infrastructure. Damage to power lines is a possibility, leading to widespread power outages in affected areas, Met Éireann warned. 

Older buildings and temporary constructions are particularly at risk for damage because weakened structures can be turned into weak links. 

The forecaster is urging people to be on guard and ready for disruption of life, especially if you live in coastal communities or areas that are exposed.

Preparations Are Underway By Galway City Council

Galway City Council has issued guidelines and support for residents and businesses in vulnerable areas, in preparation for the impact of Storm Ashley. 

The council has warned residents living near the docks and along the coast to take action to shield their properties. There are a number of places where sandbags are being made available, including at the docks alongside the pedestrian crossing on St. Nicholas Street and the Spanish Arch, Claddagh Hall, the tourist kiosk in Salthill and the fire station on Fr Burke Road. 

Without these resources, low lying areas can’t be protected from flooding and homes and businesses are put at risk of flood damage.

The Galway City Council also has assured the public that if they need them any additional supplies of sandbags will be provided. To ensure vulnerable areas are ready for the storm, crews will be on standby to help distribute these resources.

Nationwide Announcement Of Status Yellow Wind Warning 

While the Status Orange warning is for Mayo and Galway, the rest of the country will not be sheltered from the effects of Storm Ashley. All counties are covered by a Status Yellow wind warning, in place from 10 am to midnight Sunday. 

There is a possibility of widespread strong winds across the country that poses a risk of disruption, especially in exposed and coastal areas.

High winds may make driving hazardous, especially on elevated roads or in open areas, and Met Éireann is urging caution for travellers and motorists. The challenges for drivers will get worse with reduced visibility, fallen branches and debris on the roads.

In addition to that, the forecaster warns of sea conditions that are dangerous so mariners must be vigilant about the latest weather updates and refrain from night voyaging during the storm.

Enormous Potential for Coastal Flooding and Damage

Storm Ashley also poses one of the primary concerns relating to coastal flooding. High spring tides and strong winds combine to raise the odds of storm surges that could cause flooding in low lying coastal areas. 

At highest risk are communities along the western seaboard, especially in Mayo and in Galway. Local authorities and emergency services are ready to respond to any flooding incidents which will inevitably occur during the storm.

On top of the flooding threat, Storm Ashley’s powerful winds may derail infrastructure. Gusty winds especially damage weak structures, roofs and older buildings. The public is also reminded to secure loose objects around their homes and businesses including garden furniture, signs and construction materials that could be blown about and become hazards.

Safety Plan For The Residents

Residents are advised to take precautions to protect themselves and minimise damage to property as Storm Ashley moves in. 

Met Éireann and local authorities have provided several guidelines to help communities prepare for the storm:

• Stay Informed: Always be sure to check out regular weather updates and alerts available from Met Éireann and your local news.
• Secure Loose Objects: Fasten loose items around your property until the winds die down.
• Prepare for Power Outages: Charge electronic devices in advance, and keep alternate lighting and heating methods on hand, in case you lose power.
• Avoid Unnecessary Travel: When under a Status Orange warning stay indoors, if possible, during the height of the storm. Travel, if essential, should be undertaken with extreme care and in the knowledge of existing hazards on the roads.
• Use Sandbags for Flood Prevention: In case you are living in a coastal or low lying area use the sandbags offered by the local authorities to protect your home or business against flooding.

Importance of Staying Vigilant When Storm Ashley Hits

The arrival of Storm Ashley is a reminder that weather can – and will – be unpredictable, and that it is a wise idea to always be prepared. 

Status Orange wind warning typically carry warnings of potential widespread impacts – power outages and travel disruptions, or flooding and property damage. 

Warning is extended to Mayo, Galway and other counties urging people to take these warnings seriously and have taken all the necessary precautions to protect yourselves, your families and your properties.

Emergency Services on Standby

Emergency services around the country are on high alert following Storm Ashley. To any incidents that may result from the storm, local authorities, fire brigades and coast guard teams are ready to respond. 

Utility companies and rescue teams are also in place to turn power back on and help with power line disconnections, downed trees or flooding.

Residents are asked to report any hazardous conditions, such as blocked roads, fallen trees or power outages to local authorities so emergency teams can act as quickly as possible. 

The public must work with emergency personnel and follow any guidance or Instructions offered during the storm.

Conclusion

The Status Orange and Status Yellow wind warnings anticipate the impact of Storm Ashley and its potential for creating significant weather disruption across the Island. 

Strong winds combined with high spring tides and coastal flooding present a very serious danger both to life and to property, mostly around Mayo, and around the coast generally. Residents should stay informed, follow safety guidelines, and do their best to take proactive steps that will reduce impact.

As Storm Ashley sweeps across UK and Ireland, authorities across the country are calling on the public to keep vigilant and take all precautionary measures. With the right preparation, and emphasis on safety, communities can ride out the storm and avoid the risk of damage and injury.

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