By Ralph Riegel

Copyright independent

Transport networks will be significantly disrupted as the powerful Atlantic front moves in past the west coast.

Wind gusts could exceed 100kmh in some coastal areas as ESB Networks said repair crews will be on standby in the event of major power outages.

Met Éireann has issued Status Orange wind warnings for some western and northern counties that are likely to bear the brunt of the first named storm of the autumn-winter season. The alerts were issued for Galway, Donegal, Leitrim, Mayo and Sligo, and will run from 2pm-10pm today.

A Status Yellow wind warning will be in place for the rest of Ireland from midday until midnight today as Storm Amy passes.

Rare and very dangerous

A Status Red storm warning – the highest marine alert possible – has been issued from Loop Head to Rossan Point and Fair Head.

Met Éireann said winds could reach storm force 11 at times off some western and northern coasts. Meteorologist Liz Walsh said offshore conditions will be “rare and very dangerous”.

Water Safety Ireland and the Coast Guard urged people to avoid exposed coastal areas in the specified Status Orange zones.

Damaging gusts are also expected a significant distance inland.

Keith Leonard, national director of the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management, said: “It is quite clear that we will have challenging weather conditions at local level in many counties. Local authority severe weather teams are activated and are preparing for the storm’s approach.

7-Day Weather Forecast: September 29th to October 5th

“For those in areas affected, I would advise they pay attention to their local conditions and members of the public should monitor Met Éireann’s ongoing advice and act accordingly. Even after the storm has passed, there is a possibility of road flooding or fallen trees so drivers are urged to take care in the aftermath of the storm.”

Gardaí, councils and the Departments of Education and Transport are carefully monitoring developments with Storm Amy.

The decision to close schools or suspend classes early rests with local management boards, with some schools in coastal areas expected to close early to allow school transport operations to conclude well before the Status Orange warning comes into effect.

Outdoor public attractions in coastal areas are expected to suspend operations for the Status Orange alert.

Ferry services will be suspended in affected counties, while passengers at both Ireland West-Knock Airport and Donegal Airport have been asked to check with their airlines amid concerns that some flights could potentially be delayed.

Bus and rail services may also be disrupted during the peak of the storm. There are also concerns that the wind and rain from the storm could cause significant travel disruption for motorists with fallen trees, storm debris and isolated flooding.

The UK Met Office has issued wind warnings for Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone and Derry which will be in force from 4pm today until 6am tomorrow.