Schools close and West on red alert

SCHOOLS across the county will be closed tomorrow as will all GMIT campuses as Hurricane Ophelia continues to approach the south west coast.

Met Eireann has included Co Galway in its listing of red status weather alerts and the Department of Education has instructed schools affected not to open on health and safety grounds. Bus Eireann had already decided it would not be operating its school bus services.

Appeals are being made to members of the public and the farming community to ensure outdoor equipment etc is secure ahead of the storm winds forecast for later tomorrow.

Ireland West Airport Knock is advising passengers traveling tomorrow (Monday) that disruption to some flights may be possible due to weather conditions.

Met Eireann says Galway to storm force southerly winds will occur with severe and damaging gusts - winds strongest along Southwestern  and Southern counties. Structural damage is possible anywhere.

A heavy rain and flood risk warning has also been issued with the heaviest rain expected in the Atlantic coastal counties.

Ex-hurricane Ophelia will continue to track northwards on Monday night, exiting Irish coastal waters before midnight.

ESB crews are preparing for possible power outages and many Galway shops have reported a huge rise in sales of torches, candles and matches since early today.

People living near anyone elderly or those living alone are asked to check on them.