Louth Braces for Storm Floris over bank holiday weekend
While the heaviest conditions are expected to affect parts of Ulster and the northwest, forecasters say Louth could still see widespread rain, difficult driving conditions, and potential localised flooding. Motorists are being advised to avoid unnecessary travel on Monday morning, particularly on routes prone to debris or surface water.
Saturday is expected to remain mostly dry in the northeast, with warm temperatures and sunny spells. Sunday will see increasing cloud cover and patchy rain spreading from the west. The main front associated with Storm Floris is expected to arrive late Sunday evening, bringing widespread rainfall and strengthening winds overnight.
Louth County Council has urged residents to secure outdoor items such as bins, garden furniture, trampolines and signage, and to report any fallen trees or flooding via their emergency services lines. Outdoor events planned for the weekend, including community fun days and camping trips, may be disrupted or cancelled due to safety concerns.
The timing of the storm comes as thousands prepare to travel across the country for the long weekend. Families heading away, especially those planning to camp or visit coastal areas, are being advised to keep a close eye on weather updates and to reconsider travel plans if conditions deteriorate.
Businesses in Drogheda, Dundalk and surrounding towns have also expressed concern, with some saying they plan to close early on Monday or move planned events indoors.
Storm Floris also follows several bouts of unsettled summer weather, including the recent remnants of Storm Éowyn, which led to the temporary closure of over 100 forest and trail sites nationwide. Many of those sites only recently reopened, and authorities are monitoring them closely for any additional damage or safety issues.
The Department of Rural and Community Development and Coillte have already provided funding for trail repairs after the previous storm, but it remains unclear whether further damage from Floris will require additional supports.
Met Éireann is expected to issue more detailed weather warnings by Saturday as the path of the storm becomes clearer. In the meantime, locals are advised to take basic precautions and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of high winds and heavy rainfall.
As the Bank Holiday weekend approaches, Louth residents are being reminded that, while summer storms are not unusual, preparedness and caution can go a long way in preventing accidents and ensuring safety.
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