A nationwide Status Yellow wind warning and weather advisory are in place for the Easter weekend, with Storm Dave set to bring “very strong” winds.
Met Éireann have issued an advisory which came into effect at midnight and is to remain in place until midnight on Tuesday – with heavy rain potentially causing spot flooding and overlapping on coasts.
A Yellow wind warning is to come into place across the country from 2pm on Saturday, remaining in place until 11pm on Saturday.
The weekend is to be windy and wet, with Easter Sunday to be a cool and brighter day, followed by continued unsettled conditions next week.
The National Meteorological Service says there could be “severe or damaging” gusts and coastal flooding is likely, particularly during high tide and in low-lying areas along the Atlantic coast.
Possible impacts could see fallen frees and branches, waves overlapping, difficult travelling conditions, and debris and loose objects displaced.
Western and northern coastal areas will be particularly at risk of coastal flooding, brought on by high tides, storm serge and persistent winds, the weather service said.
In a statement, Met Éireann said: “We’re in a period of spring tides, so those high tides in combination with storm surge and strong onshore winds may lead to wave overtopping and flooding in low-lying and exposed coastal areas.”
In advance of the storm, a meeting took place on Thursday between Met Éireann, local authorities, government departments, state agencies and utility providers.
Official advice says that people should stay away from coastal edges, harbours, piers and low-lying promenades during high tide, with the Irish Coast Guard advising: “Stay back, stay high, stay dry.”
Drivers have been urged to anticipate strong gusts and other hazards including falling or fallen trees. With high-sided vehicles and motorcyclists particularly vulnerable during strong winds, drivers are being urged to slow down and leave extra room for pedestrians and cyclists.
Easter Sunday is to see some sunshine, however it will be breezy and showery on the whole, with conditions to improve as Storm Dave passes.