The last weekend of 2012 is set to be a blustery one with the mild Christmas weather giving way to gale-force winds and rain. Met Éireann issued a weather warning yesterday as wind speeds of up to 100km/h are forecast in some exposed areas. Up to 5,000 homes in the west were left without power last night.
There is a risk that more homes and businesses could be left without power as a result of the gusts forecast. There were several power outages and fallen trees last Sunday after gale-force winds caused damage across the country.
Some Irish Ferries services have been disrupted as a result of the bad weather, with the Rosslare to Pembroke ferry cancelled yesterday and today.
Met Éireann’s David Rogers said today would see a mixture of sun and showers but the remainder of the weekend would be changeable.
“It will not be as mild as it has been the past few days and the temperatures are set to drop. The wind coming from the north and west will make it feel colder,” he said.
He said there would be a lull in winds over the weekend as temperatures were set to drop to between 5-8 degrees with frost expected in most parts.
AA Roadwatch has warned that high-sided vehicles are vulnerable on open or exposed roads in windy weather.
Motorists are urged to be aware of fallen trees and debris on roads, particularly this morning.
The Department of Transport advises people to keep away from cliffs, piers and any other coastal areas.
Those ringing in the new year are advised to wrap up warmly as it will be cold on New Year’s Eve night with showers forecast in the west and north.
However, Mr Rogers said the weather was set to improve on New Year’s Day from wet and windy to cooler temperatures.