Upcoming weather forecast predicts strong winds and gusty conditions due to Storm Floris - Met Éireann's latest report
Ireland and Northern Ireland are bracing for the arrival of Storm Floris, a strong and unseasonal storm expected to bring heavy rain and strong to damaging winds.
Donegal County Council crews are on standby, anticipating the storm's effects from around 6am. The storm is moving towards the north of Ireland and is expected to track over the northwest tonight and tomorrow, moving over Scotland and clearing into the North Sea.
The storm will bring very strong and blustery southwest winds veering westerly, with some damaging gusts. In coastal areas, winds of up to 70 mph are expected, with inland winds reaching around 50 mph and a small chance of gusts reaching 85 mph in some spots. This is a significant increase from the August wind record of 66 mph, which was set in Northern Ireland.
Met Eireann has issued Status Yellow weather warnings, effective from early tomorrow morning, for counties Clare, Galway, Mayo, and Sligo, as well as across all of Northern Ireland, lasting until Monday afternoon. The UK Met Office also issued amber and yellow warnings for Northern Ireland and Scotland, highlighting the rare intensity of the storm for August.
The expected impacts of Storm Floris include heavy rainfall, leading to localised flooding aggravated by leaves and debris blocking drains. Dangerous travel conditions are also expected due to wet roads and fallen trees or debris. Structural damage to buildings and potential power outages from fallen trees and wind damage are risks associated with the storm. Wave overtopping along coastal areas poses risks of coastal flooding and erosion.
Outdoor events and community activities may be disrupted due to the severe weather. In response, the owner of Finn McCool's Surf School in Rossnowlagh, Co Donegal, has cancelled all lessons, camps, and rentals tomorrow due to public safety concerns. Newry, Mourne, and Down District Council will close its forests, country parks, and trails to cars and pedestrians due to the increased risk of falling branches and debris.
People are urged to exercise caution, especially during the hours of darkness, as the storm may cause strong gusty winds that may bring down some branches, potentially causing damage. It is important to avoid outdoor activities and to stay indoors during the storm.
In summary, Storm Floris is a strong, unseasonal storm for August, bringing heavy rain, strong to damaging winds (50-70 mph typical, possibly up to 85), with risks of flooding, fallen trees, power outages, and structural damage primarily affecting northwestern and northern areas of Ireland and all of Northern Ireland around Monday, August 4-5, 2025. It is crucial to stay informed and to follow all safety guidelines issued by local authorities.
- The heavy rain and strong winds associated with Storm Floris could potentially cause power outages and structural damage in northern and northwestern areas of Ireland and all of Northern Ireland, particularly around Monday, August 4-5, 2025.
- With winds expected to reach up to 70 mph in coastal areas and 50 mph inland, it is advisable to stay indoors and exercise caution during this storm.
