Storm Abigail to push gale force winds across Ireland

Violent winds are expected today as Storm “Abigail” makes her way to our shores.

Met Éireann have issued two status warnings. A status Orange wind warning has been issued for Donegal, Leitrim, Mayo and Sligo.

A status Yellow wind warning has been issued for the rest of Munster, Leinster, Cavan, Monaghan and Roscommon.

The strongest winds are expected to peak this evening and early tonight.

However the strongest of these winds, anything from 110-140km/h will stay offshore.

Driving rain will accompany the gale force winds and so driving conditions are expected to be difficult.

WESTMEATH

According to Cathal Nolan of the Midland Weather Channel, the worst areas to be affected in Westmeath are in the western half of the county.

"This evening and tonight is when Westmeath will get the worst of it, with 80 - 100kmp/h winds in exposed areas and any exposed roads," says Cathal.

"These will be strongest in the western half of the county. So we're asking motorists out there to take care as there will be heavy rain and this will lead to dangerous driving conditions."

And there's no let up from the wet and windy weather as the remnants of hurricane Kate is expected to arrive on Irish shores over the weekend.

"Saturday and Sunday , we'll see wind speeds of 70 - 90 m/ph in the midland region. The disruption will be caused by the heavy rainfall during the course of the weekend, so we can expect to see some localised flooding on regional roads."

Abigail is the first storm to be named by Met Éireann and the UK met office.