Written 3 weeks ago by Will Faulkner

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Here is the latest update from The Midlands Weather Channel:

HURRICANE OPHELIA

SEVERE WEATHER WARNING

TIME OF ARRIVAL?
Based on the latest forecast models, it looks as though Ophelia will reach the south coast by early morning on Monday before spreading country wide. The worst of the winds across the Midlands will occur during the afternoon between 11:00 and 18:00.

WINDS?
The strongest of the winds are likely to effect the south coast before spreading northwards and eastwards. Winds in counties Cork, Kerry and Waterford may well reach 160kph, with winds across the Midlands reaching 140kph.

FLOODING?
Coastal flooding is highly likely on the southern coast with Cork city being an example in case. Extremely large sea swells will make conditions very dangerous on the coast. Flooding is also like from rainfall in areas which are usually effected.

ADVICE?
Ophelia has the potential to be the deadliest storm to strike Ireland since hurricane Debbie in 1961. It’s my personal advice to stay in doors as much as possible throughout the worst of the storm. Avoid any journeys where possible. Park an vehicles away from roofs in case of flying tiles. Have some candles in the event of power failures.

Meteorologist Cathal Nolan from Rhode, County Offaly runs the Midlands Weather Channel on Facebook. He uses information from several national Met Offices to prepare a localised forecast for counties Laois, Offaly and Westmeath. You can follow his page here: https://www.facebook.com/MidlandWeatherChannel/