October 20, 2024 – Ireland is bracing for severe weather as Storm Ashley, expected to bring heavy rain and destructive winds, approaches the country this weekend. Met Éireann, the Irish meteorological service, has issued a series of warnings for both coastal and inland regions, with conditions forecast to worsen on Saturday night and into Sunday, October 22.
Winds are predicted to reach speeds of up to 115 km/h (70 mph), with the worst of the storm set to batter western counties. Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable, with warnings of potential flooding due to a combination of supermoon spring tides and high swells. Waves of up to 15 metres are forecast along Ireland's west coast, particularly around Galway Bay, where swells of 18.5 metres have already been recorded.
The Met Office has issued an amber warning for counties Fermanagh, Tyrone, Derry, and parts of Antrim, with the advisory in effect from 13:00 until 20:00 BST on Sunday. In the Republic of Ireland, Met Éireann has placed a Status Orange warning for much of the west coast, with Galway, Mayo, and other coastal counties facing the brunt of the storm from 10:00 local time until 20:00 on Sunday.
Cathal, a meteorologist from Ireland's Weather Channel, has issued a Status Red warning for six high-risk coastal regions, including the Aran Islands and Connemara. Winds in these areas could reach a staggering 150 km/h, with a strong possibility of structural damage and widespread service disruption.
Coastal Flooding and Travel Disruptions
As Storm Ashley bears down, authorities are taking precautions to protect vulnerable areas. Temporary tidal flood defences have been set up along the River Lagan in Belfast, with high-risk zones such as Lockview Road and Cutters Wharf prioritised. Coastal towns and villages across western counties have also bolstered flood defences, as officials prepare for the expected storm surge.
The impact on travel is already being felt, with dozens of flights cancelled at Belfast City Airport and Dublin Airport, primarily affecting Aer Lingus services. Ferry services between Northern Ireland and Scotland are heavily disrupted, with most Stena Line and P&O sailings on Sunday cancelled. Translink has also warned of potential disruption to its rail services.
Parks and Public Spaces Closed
In addition to travel chaos, public parks and services are being shut down across parts of Northern Ireland. Forest parks, including Castlewellan and Kilbroney, are closed to vehicles, while Gortin Glens Forest Park is fully closed. Derry City and Strabane District Council have shut all public parks and recycling centres for the weekend. Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon council has also advised that recycling centres may experience delayed openings on Monday.
With high winds, dangerous seas, and the risk of flooding, authorities are urging the public to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors wherever possible during the peak of the storm. Storm Ashley is expected to subside by Sunday evening, but officials are warning residents to remain cautious as the full extent of damage and disruption may not become clear until after the storm has passed.
As the weekend unfolds, residents in affected areas are advised to keep updated on weather developments and follow safety advice from local authorities.
Also keep up to date by following the Love Ireland Facebook Group where members keep us updated with live input.
Please find update from Blarney Castle and Gardens. Safety must always come first.