Homeowners across Donegal have been warned of taking extra care as Ireland is at threat of “very high impact” weather from Hurricane Ophelia next week, Met Eireann has warned.
People have been warned to secure loose ridge tiles and other others with strong winds forecast for Monday onwards.
A status yellow alert is in place from 6am on Monday through to 6am on Tuesday but this could increase in warning scale.
The meteorological service said “changeable and very unsettled weather” would continue throughout the weekend into Monday, as the remnants of the storm splash across the country.”
Of Monday, it said “Current indications are that the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia will track close to or over Ireland, with the threat of storm force winds, outbreaks of heavy rain and very high seas during Monday and for a time Monday night.
“However, there is still some uncertainty regarding the exact track of the system.”
Meanwhile, the Irish Coast Guard had important advice regarding the storm.
A Facebook posting said “We strongly advise the public not to go on exposed coasts, cliffs, piers, harbour walls, beaches, promenades or any other coastal areas during the inclement weather”.
It added: “Importantly if you do see someone who may get into trouble during the storm call 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”
The 10th consecutive Atlantic named storm to become a hurricane in 2017 is expected to travel “very quickly” northwards on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Motorists and homeowners were also urged to take care over the weekend today.
Met Eireann has said: “Storm force winds, heavy rain and high seas are threatened.
“Met Eireann will continue to monitor this storm and will issue appropriate warnings as required.”