Ireland is bracing for one of the most dangerous storms ever to hit the country, with the National Weather Centre warning of strong winds in the early hours of 24 January, the Guardian reports.
Emergency services are on high alert and the country is bracing for a virtual standstill, with airports, schools, parks and offices closed and public transport cancelled at the peak hours of Storm Eowyn.
Keith Leonard, chairman of the National Emergency Coordination Group, said the storm would be one of the most dangerous storms Ireland has seen.
"We expect this storm to be destructive, dangerous and disruptive. We can expect wind gusts of greater than 130 km/h inland, which is very, very unusual. It will be a destructive, dangerous and disruptive weather event," Leonard said.
He said the winds will bring severe conditions that will pose a risk to life and property.
The public was warned to stay in their homes, avoid the coast and have fully charged phones and flashlights. The Electricity Supply Board said significant damage to electricity infrastructure was expected and widespread power outages were expected.
Leonard said the number of people who lost power is likely to exceed the 385,000 figure from Storm Ophelia in 2017.
"Our most important message today is that everyone should shelter in place for the duration of any red alerts. There will likely be significant and widespread power outages, so I would encourage everyone to prepare in advance. Make sure phones, flashlights and laptops are fully charged. Make sure there is no messy garden furniture or other items on your property that could cause problems in high winds," Leonard said.
Local officials encourage anyone living in mobile homes or other dwellings with potential structural issues to consider staying with friends or relatives during the storm.
Donegal County Council is offering vouchers to encourage people in these situations who have no alternatives to move into a hotel or bed and breakfast.
Eoin Sherlock, Met Éireann's chief hydrometeorologist, stated:
"The fact that we are on the National Emergency Coordination Group today means that this is one of the most dangerous storms Ireland has faced. This is the ultimate version of Atlantic storms" .
The most dangerous recorded storm in Irish history is Hurricane Debbie. It was not an Atlantic storm but a rare tropical cyclone that hit Ireland on 16 September 1961. It caused 18 deaths in the Republic of Ireland and six in Northern Ireland. | BGNES
