Weather warning Galway

Galway braced for ‘weather bomb’ as Met Éireann issues Status Red warning

Met Éireann has issued a Status Red weather warning for Galway as Storm Ashley is set to bring "violent" winds and storm surges to the west coast.

The warning will come into effect at 6pm on Tuesday and will remain in place until 9am on Wednesday.

The forecaster said that Storm Ashley will bring "very strong to gale force and gusty south to southwest winds", with mean speeds of 80 to 90km/h and gusts of up to 130km/h.

The warning also said that there will be "high seas and storm surges" along the coast, with a risk of flooding in coastal areas.

Met Éireann has advised people to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm.

Schools and businesses in the affected areas have been advised to close.

The storm is expected to make landfall in Ireland on Tuesday evening and will move across the country overnight.

The worst of the weather is expected to hit Galway, Mayo, Clare, Cork, Kerry and Limerick.

Met Éireann has said that the storm could cause "significant damage" to property and infrastructure.

People in the affected areas are being urged to take precautions and to stay safe during the storm.