Met Eireann issues weather warnings ahead of Storm Brian

Met Eireann has issued three seperate weather warnings ahead of Storm Brian's arrival today.

A status Orange wind warning has been issued for counties Mayo, Galway, Clare, Kerry, Cork, Waterford and Wexford for west to southwest winds, veering northwest, reach mean speeds of 65-80 km/h and gusts 110-130 km/h.

Meanwhile, a status yellow wind warning has been issued for the rest of Ireland, for west to southwest winds, becoming northwest reaching mean speeds up to 65 km/h with gusts up to 110 km/h.

A seperate 'Yellow' rainfall warning has been issued for Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo, Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick and Waterford, for heavy rain with accumulations of 30 to 50mm expected over the period.

According to local weather expert Cathal Nolan of the Midland Weather Channel, storm Brian currently lies about 150 miles off the southwest coast, with its associated rainfall just starting to make an impact into the coast of Kerry.

"This rainfall will spread northwards to all areas through the afternoon and evening. The winds will begin to increase through this afternoon and will reach between 70 and 80 kph this overnight."

He says however that the highest winds won't impact the Midlands until tomorrow morning and into midday.

"At this point winds will reach between 90-110 kph across the Midlands leading to some slight disruption to power services and will increase the likelihood of some tree felling. Please do take care if you must travel tomorrow and stay up to date with all forecast services."

*More updates to follow.