Orange weather warning for Storm Lorenzo takes effect in Mayo

The orange warning for Storm Lorenzo issued by Met Eireann for six counties including Mayo has taken effect from 6 p.m. and remains in place until 6 a.m. on Friday morning.

In its latest storm update, Mayo County Council informed the public of the possibility of road closures during this evening’s Status Orange Wind Warning and urge caution if travelling.

The update continued: "Several ‘at risk’ roads, including parts of the N59 as well as the R313 between Belmullet and Blacksod could be closed for periods this evening.

"Any road closures will be published on Mayo County Council social media channels and through the local media as they are agreed.

"Mayo County Council issued a level 3 alert at 9 a.m. this morning. This means that the flood emergency plan has come into operation and arrangements are in place in areas of the county that may be at higher risk.

"We would urge the public to continue to remain vigilant as they go about their routines. Should you need to travel, extreme care should be exercised mindful of the conditions.

"Please be aware of fallen trees, branches, electricity wires, debris on the roads and walk-ways and flooding in certain areas.

"Coastal areas continue to pose a high risk from wind and high seas. Please exercise extreme caution in these areas.

"In the event of flash flooding and/or fallen trees, we will endeavour to address the matter as soon as is possible mindful of the safety of our staff.

"Out of hours arrangements are in place in each of the municipal districts this evening by calling the following numbers:

Belmullet 097 81004

Westport 098 50400

Ballina 096 76100

Ballinrobe 094 954 1029

Castlebar 094 906 4000

Claremorris 094 937 2310

"We would also call on the public to ensure any loose objects such as ladders or garden furniture outside the home are secured and vehicles parked clear of potential falling debris.

"Advice to builder contractors is to secure all materials on sites and road contractors to secure signage."

Head of Communications at Mayo County Council, Martina Hughes, outlined: “We would like to assure the public that Mayo County Council will continue to update you with further information as appropriate over next 24 hours and would request the co-operation of the Public until such time as the storm has passed."