Storm Austen: Orange rain warnings issued for six counties as heavy rain and strong winds set to hit Ireland

Status Orange rain warnings have been issued for six counties, as Storm Austen looks set to hit Ireland tonight.

An Orange warning is in effect for Waterford, Cork, Kerry, Dublin, Wexford and Wicklow. The orange warning will be in place for Cork, Kerry and Waterford from 10pm to 5am tomorrow, while the warning will be in place for Dublin, Wexford and Wicklow from 2am to 8am tomorrow.

A Status Yellow wind and rain warning is in effect for the rest of the country from 7pm until 10am tomorrow morning.

Met Éireann say that the bulk of the wind and rain will be seen in the south of the country.

Storm Austen may cause disruption to services across the country. Bus Éireann are advising customers people to check service updates ahead of the strong winds and heavy rain.

Chief Customer Officer at Bus Éireann, Allen Parker said: “Met Éireann is forecasting difficult driving conditions as strong winds and heavy rain cross the country from this evening, and into the weekend as well. There are also warnings about the possibility of flooding, debris and fallen trees on the roads.

“All Bus Éireann services are scheduled to operate as normal, however if any are impacted by the stormy weather, we will post details online as quickly as possible to keep our customers informed. The best approach would be to check service updates on our website before leaving home, to minimise any potential disruption”.