Donegal County Council’s Crisis Management Team is meeting this morning to plan for Storm Callum.
Storm Callum is expected to batter the Donegal coastline tonight (Thursday) into Friday morning, bringing wind gusts of up to 130 km/h.
Met Eireann is warning that the dangerous, stormy conditions “may constitute a risk to life and property.” A status orange wind warning is issued for Donegal as well as the counties of Galway, Mayo, Sligo, Clare and Kerry.
Donegal County Council are urging the public to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.
The Crisis Management team will finalise the necessary arrangements this morning and will continue to monitor the situation.
Met Eireann is warning that winds will be strongest overnight and early on Friday, gusting between 110 and 130 km/h at coasts.
With very high astronomical Spring Tides forecasted for this period and with surge levels in coastal areas predicted to increase in the coming days, Donegal County Council is urging the public to take extra care when outdoors during this weather event:
A council spokesperson said: “Extreme care should be taken overnight on Thursday and during the morning work and school commute on Friday particularly in coastal areas and on higher ground owing to high winds.
“All motorists should drive with extreme care, allow extra time for journeys and watch out for fallen branches and debris on roads. There is also a risk of fallen trees.
“Homeowners, property owners and businesses should take precautions to secure any loose items of furniture, hoardings, scaffolding, signage and items such as trampolines and bins, which would be vulnerable to strong winds.
“The Council is also asking property owners and occupiers of properties in areas susceptible to coastal flooding to be prepared and to take the necessary precautions.”
The council will provide further updates on Facebook and on Twitter @DonegalCouncil #StormCallum.
The Council can be contacted during normal business hours on 074 91 53900 and in the event of an out of hours emergency the Council’s Road Service can be contacted on 074 91 72288. Irish Water can be contacted on 1850 278 278. For emergencies requiring the assistance of the Fire Service call 999.
You can sign up for free weather alerts to your phone by registering at www.mapalerter.com/donegal.