MET ÉIREANN has issued a severe weather warning for the east coast of the country for this evening after gale force winds battered the west earlier today.

Winds of 120km/h are expected, the office says, with even higher speeds expected in exposed areas in the north-west.

Drivers are advised to travel with extreme caution, as many trees may be felled as a result of the winds; while pedestrians are asked to be wary of the possibility of loose roof slates and tiles being blown off buildings.

Those in the West are also advised that there will be further showers in the area tonight, after wind speeds were expected to peak in the area earlier this evening. Drivers in areas along the Atlantic coast, however, are warned of high seas throughout th evening and night.

The Irish Times reports that some homes in Co Donegal are reported to be without power, while RTÉ carries warnings from Limerick City Council that the Shannon may overflow at high tide at 10pm tonight. Flood barriers have been erected in danger areas.

Hundreds of shipping boats are also understood to have taken refuge in ports across the country, as the seas become impossible to navigate safely.

AA Roadwatch warns motorists to be aware of surface water and fallen debris on the roads. The extreme weather warnings remain in place until at least 6am tomorrow morning,