A status orange wind warning has been issued by Met Éireann for the entire country as Storm Brendan approaches.

The first of the warnings will come into effect in Connacht, Donegal and Kerry from 5am on Monday. As Storm Brendan tracks to the northwest of Ireland, southerly winds will reach mean speeds of 65 to 80 km/h with gusts generally up to 130 km/h, higher in exposed areas.

There is a significant risk of coastal flooding due to the combination of high spring tides and storm surge.

Status orange warnings indicate infrequent and dangerous weather conditions, which may pose a threat to life and property.

A nationwide orange weather warning has been issued for Monday. \ Met Éireann

On Sunday at noon, Met Éireann head of forecasting Evelyn Cusack and head of flood forecasting Eoin Sherlock said Storm Brendan would bring stormy conditions, heavy rain and high seas.

They warned that people should expect disruption to travel and possible localised flooding, especially in coastal areas. There may also be some localised structural damage and trees uprooted.

Red marine warning

A red marine warning was issued on Sunday morning.

Southerly gales or strong gales will develop overnight on Sunday on Irish coastal waters from Roches Point to Slyne Head to Malin Head.

Strong gale force to storm force southerly winds will develop on Monday morning on all Irish coastal waters and on the Irish Sea, reaching violent storm force at times in the west.

Storm advice

The following advice can help to minimise damage:

  • Turn off all electrical power and water in sheds (not fences).
  • Store light items indoors and tidy the farmyard.
  • All gates should be fastened using bolts or chains. Never use twine to secure a gate.
  • Ensure all pen dividers and feed barriers in animal housing are properly secured using steel fixings.
  • Ensure all gutters on buildings are secure and clean.
  • Ensure all roof sheets are secure. When working at heights always hire in suitable lifting equipment – never work off a ladder.
  • Move machinery into sheltered areas.
  • Make arrangements for an alternative power generator that may be needed for milking or water pumping.
  • Charge mobile phones and keep a battery-operated radio to hand in case landline phones are disconnected.
  • Farmers are advised not to undertake repairs during the storm as it is likely to lead to a serious accident.
  • Also, do not approach fallen power lines as they may still be live – contact ESB Networks before approaching any fallen power lines. Contact ESB Networks here.