CONFIRMED: Schools to close on Friday as Ireland prepares for 'destructive' Storm Éowyn

The National Emergency Co-ordination Group (NECG) have confirmed that most schools, early learning, childcares, and higher and further education institutions will close for the duration of the Status Red wind warning that is set to hit 22 counties. 

Along with this, a Status Orange wind warning has been issued for the entire country due to Storm Éowyn. 

The NECG are advising all people in the areas affected by the warnings to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel and take action to protect both themselves and their properties.

Keith Leonard, Chair of the NECG, said, “Storm Éowyn is going to be a very dangerous and destructive weather event. The forecasted winds have the capacity to bring severe, damaging winds which will constitute a risk to life and property. During the Red Level wind warnings, the public are advised to shelter indoors. 

“Where Orange warnings are in place, the public are also advised to limit travel to essential journeys only. An orange wind warning should not be underestimated – it can bring extremely strong gusts and can also pose a threat to life and property.

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"I would urge people to stay away from coastal areas during this period and to heed the appeal from the Irish Coast Guard for people to ‘Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry’. It’s also important to remember that even after the storm has passed, there is a strong possibility of fallen trees and other debris so drivers are also urged to take care in the aftermath of the storm,” he added.

Employers in red warning areas should also facilitate working from home for all employees, where possible, and only emergency service workers should be leaving home for work, where directed by their employer.

Also read: LIVE: Longford hit with Status Red warning as Storm Eowyn approaches

Public transport does not operate in a red warning, and so, transport operators will make an assessment on when services can resume when the red warning is lifted.  

The NECG is continuing to liaise with Met Éireann and monitor the situation to coordinate an appropriate response, however, widespread disruption to public and other services is to be anticipated.

The public are strongly advised to keep up to date with Met Eireann forecasts, which you can do so here.