ALERT: Met Éireann warns of 'gale force winds' as latest storm is officially named

MET Éireann is warning that 'very strong to gale force winds' are likely across the country later this week as Storm Éowyn bears down on Ireland.

The forecaster says a powerful low-pressure system is expected to hit Ireland on Thursday night and into Friday, bringing very strong winds with a potential for damage to be caused in places.

A national weather advisory has been issued and it's expected that weather warnings will be issued for some counties later in the week.

"On Thursday night and Friday, a deepening Low-Pressure system, Storm Éowyn, is forecast to track across Ireland. Very strong to gale force winds are expected across the country with the potential for damaging wind gusts and disruption in places," reads the advisory, which was updated this Tuesday morning.

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Met Éireann says Transitory falls of sleet and snow are also expected during Storm Éowyn, especially across west and northwest counties. High seas and spells of heavy rain are also likely in coastal counties.

"Met Éireann is continuously monitoring the evolving situation and weather warnings will be issued as confidence in the forecast track/intensity of the Low-Pressure system improves," said a spokesperson.

The weather advisory remains valid until midnight on Saturday (Friday night).