LAST UPDATE | 31 Oct 2020

THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE remain without power as Storm Aiden sweeps across the country, as Met Eíreann warns of high wind speeds. 

An earlier Status Orange wind warning for Donegal, Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Clare ended at 4pm today. However, a Status Yellow wind warning for Donegal, Galway and Mayo has been issued and will remain in place from 11pm tonight until 6am tomorrow morning. 

A Status Yellow wind warning is also in place for Northern Ireland until 9pm tonight. 

Met Éireann has warned that Storm Aiden will bring mean speeds of 65 to 80km/h, with severe and damaging gusts of 100 to 130km/h. 

Very high seas will lead to a risk of some coastal flooding, the forecaster said. 

Heavy overnight rain is set to clear into the Irish Sea this morning, but scattered heavy showers are expected to follow with a risk of hail and isolated thunderstorms. 

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) asked road users to exercise caution while using the roads over the weekend, and to be wary of hazardous road conditions.

Road users in areas affected by the warnings for strong winds are advised to check local traffic and weather conditions before setting out on a journey.

Likewise, An Garda Síochana has urged people to take care and exercise caution this weekend, in particular road users. 

Gardaí are asking people to avoid all unnecessary travel, reminding motorists the expected winds will make driving conditions hazardous, especially for more vulnerable road users such as cyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists and high sided vehicles.

“Road users should pay particular attention to the risk posed by fallen trees, flying debris and flooded roads,” a garda spokesperson said, adding that people are advised to remove or secure patio furniture, rubbish bins and any loose items from around buildings.