'Stay away from coastal areas' Waterford Council warns

Locals have been urged to stay away from the coast this weekend by Waterford City and County Council as Storm Darragh approaches the south east coast. 

Met Éireann has advised that Storm Darragh will bring very strong and gusty northwest winds to the southeast, with a yellow weather warning in place from 3 pm on Friday until 3 pm on Saturday. A status orange warning will be in place from midnight on Saturday until 9 am.

Amid concerns of large coastal waves, with waves overtopping, potential road closures and difficult travelling conditions, Waterford Council's Senior Engineer, Gabriel Hynes, has urged the public to stay away from coastal areas during the storm.

"Strong and gusty winds will make for difficult travelling conditions," said Mr Hynes. "Motorists should slow down and be aware of the dangers of fallen trees, branches and debris," he said.

"We would ask the public to take care on the roads, allow extra time for journeys, and be mindful of vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians. High-sided vehicles are particularly vulnerable during this time," he added.

"There may also be a risk of wave overtopping so we would urge the public to stay away from coastal areas for the duration of these Met Éireann warnings."

Waterford City and County Council has said that its severe weather management team will be monitoring the situation and that members of the public can contact them at 0818 10 20 20 during normal office hours after which calls will be transferred to the Council’s emergency services number.