Householders and farm businesses are being advised to prepare for potential power outages as thunderstorms are forecast.

The National Severe Weather and Flooding Coordination Group met with key stakeholders again today (Friday, June 26) to review the impacts of recent weather conditions and to assess the forecasted weather for the coming days.

Ireland will continue to be very warm in many counties today and very mild tonight although temperatures will decrease from tomorrow.

Thunderstorm warnings have been issued for many counties with heavy rainfall, lightning, localised flooding and a possibility of hail where they occur.

Power Outages

ESB networks reported that at 11:00a.m, there were still approximately 8,000 customers without power as a result of lightning strikes, and crews are on the ground are continuing to work to resolve those issues.

Further thunderstorms may impact additional customers, and the public is reminded of the dangers posed by fallen live wires.

The advice is to stay away from any fallen cables or damaged electricity equipment and to report such cases to the ESB immediately. 

ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999. 

The public can monitor the PowerCheck website regarding power restoration times. 

Public advice

The main public advice if thunderstorms develop in your area is as follows:

If you hear thunder, move indoors immediately;
If heavy rain begins, avoid driving unless necessary;
If roads become flooded, turn around and find another route;
Never drive, walk or cycle through floodwater. Heavy rainfall can cause dangerous flash flooding with little warning;
If lightning develops, stop outdoor sports and seek shelter;
If hail develops, seek shelter as hail can be damaging.

Forecast conditions

Met Éireann has indicated that warm weather is still expected across Ireland for the next 24 hours, with high daytime temperatures, warm and humid nights, and the possibility of thunderstorms.

Daytime temperatures are expected to exceed 27°C;
Night-time conditions are expected to remain very mild and humid, with temperatures generally staying above 15°C;

Heavy and intense rainfall associated with thunderstorms may lead to localised flooding in affected areas today (Friday);
Localised flooding is possible today across Connacht, Ulster, and parts of Leinster and Munster. Intense downpours may result in the rapid flooding of roads, properties and low-lying areas with little warning;
While current forecast guidance indicates that the northern, western and midlands are most likely to be affected, thunderstorms can be highly localised and difficult to predict the exact location. Many areas may remain dry, while nearby locations could experience very heavy rainfall and flooding.

A Status Yellow weather warning for high temperatures has been issued and remains in place until 9:00a.m tomorrow, Saturday (June 27).

A Status Yellow weather warning for thunderstorms has been issued for: Clare; Tipperary; Kildare; Laois; Meath; Offaly, and Westmeath until 6:00 this evening (Friday, June 26).

A Status Yellow weather warning for thunderstorms has been issued for: Cavan; Donegal; Monaghan; Connacht, and Longford until 10:00p.m today.

The coordination group has also stated that public health is a significant consideration during high-temperature events.

The public is advised to:

Stay in the shade and be 'sunsmart';
Avoid going out or partaking in strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day;
Drink plenty of fluids ;
Apply UVA and UVB sunscreen to skin that is not covered, factor 30+ for adults and 50+ for children;
Look out for others who may be impacted by the weather conditions.

The high temperatures today and this evening can be a real strain for elderly people, according to the group.

If you know and elderly person who is living alone, call in a check that they are comfortable and have access to cold drinks.

A short visit could can make a huge difference to the well-being of an elderly neighbour today.

Water safety

The Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland, Waterways Ireland and the RNLI are urging the public to stay safe and remember that water safety is not just about swimming or water sports.

It is relevant to everyday activities such as coastal walks, cycling beside canals, angling, or visiting parks and beaches with family.

Drowning data shows that most accidental drownings (65%) follow land-based activities such as walking, angling, cycling, or simply spending time near the water.

If you’re planning an activity in or on the water, remember:

Swim at a lifeguarded waterway if possible;
Swim where you can be seen within your depth and stay within your depth;
Avoid entering the water in locks, marinas and harbours where hidden hazards may be present;
Supervise children: Never leave them unattended near water;
Avoid alcohol before swimming, operating watercraft or being near water, as it impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time;
Be aware that cold water temperatures can also cause cold water shock, increasing the risk of drowning;
Pay attention to all water safety signs and warnings and carry a means of calling for help;
Check tides and updated weather warnings;
Always wear a correctly fitting serviced lifejacket or buoyancy aid when boating or participating in water sports;
Let others know where you are going and when you expect to return.

The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM) said it will continue to liaise with all the relevant stakeholders to monitor the weather conditions during this weather event.