Campers warned to prepare for Storm Ellen’s high winds

'HIGH IMPACT' Met Éireann has issued an Orange weather alert for Co Mayo and other coastal counties, while Co Cork has been given a rare Red warning and is expected to bear the brunt. Pic: windy.com

Storm Ellen to bring high winds and flash flooding


Anton McNulty

MAYO County Council has warned campers to be prepared for high winds and flooding in coastal areas with Storm Ellen expected to hit Mayo later this evening (Wednesday).  
Met Éireann has issued a Status Orange weather warning for Mayo effective from 9pm this evening until 6am on Thursday morning, with heavy wind and rain forecasted in what is described as a ‘high impact storm’.
Storm Ellen is expected to first hit the south coast of Ireland before travelling through the rest of the country bringing a period of severe and potentially damaging winds. Mayo County Council has activated local preparedness plans across all of the municipal district areas and warned visitors to the county to be particularly careful.
“Mayo County Council is advising visitors to Mayo to be prepared for high winds and severe weather conditions, particularly those that maybe on camping and caravanning holidays in Coastal areas. We are advising that you take extra precautions to secure caravans, camping equipment and any other loose items. Please ensure that you follow all local advice provided by campsite management,” a council statement read.
Status Orange weather warnings are issued for storms which may pose a threat to life or property, with mean wind speeds between 65 and 80km per hour. The Council also warned that associated heavy rain brings the risk of coastal flooding.
“Due to the combination of storm surge, spring tides and onshore winds there is a potential risk of coastal flooding. A number of road closures are possible due to the expected arrival of Storm Ellen, allied with high tide and storm surge on the Mayo coast.
“During the duration of the storm conditions, Mayo County Council are urging road users to minimise their journeys and be aware of road conditions if travelling, particularly in relation to flooding and debris on the road. Should you need to travel, extreme care should be exercised mindful of the conditions.
“Please be aware of the potential of fallen trees, branches, electricity wires, debris on the roads and walkways and flooding in certain areas. Coastal areas pose a very high risk currently from wind and high seas. Please exercise extreme caution in these areas.”
All information, including times of road closures, will be posted on Mayo County Council’s website and social media channels and communicated to local media.
In the event of flash flooding and/or fallen trees, the Council will endeavour to address the matter as soon as is possible, while being mindful of the safety of its staff.