Ahead of the arrival of storm Lorenzo, the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed has urged farmers, fishermen and all people in rural areas to ensure that they are ready for the approaching storm.

Met Éireann has issued a status orange wind warning for counties Galway, Mayo, Clare, Cork, Kerry and Limerick, with speeds 65-80km/h and gusts of 100-130km/h. It has also issued a status yellow rainfall warning for Ireland as falls in excess of 50mm in parts of the west and northwest will result in some flooding.

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.

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