Road users are urged to be aware of the hazardous travelling conditions that may ensue as Storm Francis tracks across the country later today (Monday, August 24).

The National Directorate of Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM) Crisis Management Team met today to assess the updated forecast from Met Éireann regarding Storm Francis.

Storm Francis which will track over Ireland tonight (Monday, August 24) and during Tuesday (August 25) bringing a period of intense rainfall and very windy and stormy conditions.

Local teams were advised yesterday (Sunday, August 23) to actively monitor Met Éireann and the Office of Public Works forecasts during this period of unsettled weather.

As trees are in full leaf, there is the potential for a number of trees to fall, blocking roads and damaging power lines. The ESB is reportedly preparing for power outages, with staff apparently on standby to repair faults in all areas.

“It is critical that people never ever touch or approach fallen wires, stay safe and stay clear of fallen or damage electricity wires…and contact the ESB,” the team urged.

Road users to exercise caution

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is also asking road users to exercise caution while using the roads over the next few days during Storm Francis.

Drivers are being warned that on top of recent heavy rainfall and severe winds, the impending storm has the potential to make road conditions even more hazardous. The RSA has asked road users to exercise caution when using the roads over the next 24 hours.