Thunderstorm and tornado watch issued

A warning for severe thunderstorm activity in the midlands has been issued.

Risks include lightning, large hail, 100km gusts and even the slight possibility of a weak tornado system.

Irish Weather Online (IWO) issued the warning earlier this afternoon, with the proviso that thunderstorm activity may be prohibited because of dense cloud cover.

"Ongoing cloud cover is currently inhibiting surface based storms to fire but this cap may be eroded later into the evening with the help of a cold front passing through," according to Ian of the IWO.

"This event is conditional that the cap will erode, letting surface based storms to fire. Not everywhere will see a storm, but please be aware that the risk is there."

The IWO also asked that motorists planning a drive in the areas outlined to keep the warning in mind as Hail especially can reduce surface friction quite considerably .