Ophelia to impact West from afternoon

North Galway and the West of Ireland is set to be impacted by Hurricane Ophelia from this afternoon, especially late afternoon and early evening.

Already homes and businesses in the southern part of the country are without power as the storm begins to cross Ireland.

Many of the county’s large employers such as Boston Scientific, Merit Medical, Medtronic and supermarket chains have closed today. Schools, colleges and creches aren't opening today and in Tuam and outlying areas many small businesses are shut having decided to heed the advice of staying indoors.

Airports in Knock and Shannon have reported a number of flight cancellations and are advising all passengers to check with their airlines before travelling to the airport.

The Galway County Council Co-ordination Team met early this morning and will continue to meet throughout the day to coordinate the response effort to storm Ophelia. Galway County Council is operating in an emergency response mode today, normal council services are suspended.
The public may contact Galway County Council on 091 509000.
ESB and emergency crews are also on standby to deal with any incidents that may occur.

The public are again being advised to stay indoors, to stay away from and report any fallen power lines to the ESB and to secure any outdoor equipment.

The West is expected to experience heavy rainfall later this evening in conjunction with the extremely powerful winds.