Met Éireann has issued two weather warnings for this evening. A status orange warning is in place until 9:00 on Thursday night. Southwest winds will gradually become more westerly, increasing from 65 to 80 km/h overnight and will gust 110km/h to 130km/h at times. The strongest winds will be mainly in northern and western coastal areas.

Meanwhile, a status yellow warning has been issued for counties in the southeast. Westerly winds will increase 65km/h to 80 km/h overnight and will gust 110km/h to 130km/h at times. This weather warning comes into effect at midnight tonight and lasts until 9:00 Friday morning.

Separately, another status yellow warning has been issued for the whole of the country as a rapidly deepening Atlantic depression will pass to the north of Scotland during Friday. It will bring severe winds across Ireland and the UK and is also in place from midnight until Friday morning.

Care on the roads

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is advising road users take extreme care, in particular drivers of high-sided vehicles and motorcyclists, who are more vulnerable to strong winds.

Drivers should also allow extra space around other road users and use dipped headlights at all times of poor visibility.

The ESB Networks has also advised members of the public to be alert and keep a distance as storms and strong winds can cause damage to the overhead electricity wires and poles.

Fallen electricity wires can be reported immediately by calling the ESB Networks emergency number: 1850 372 999.

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