Storm Chandra is set to hit parts of Ireland this week, with powerful winds reaching up to 70 mph (112 km/h) and the risk of widespread disruptions. The storm, which is expected to bring dangerous conditions, has already triggered several weather warnings across the island, including heavy rain, snow, and potential flooding.
Impact Across Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland
According to the UK Met Office, Chandra will unleash very strong winds across Northern Ireland, particularly affecting the eastern and northern regions. The weather service has warned of longer travel times, with possible cancellations on roads, railways, air, and ferry services. There are also concerns that flying debris, including roof tiles, could pose a danger to the public.
The storm’s ferocity could cause power outages, with the Met Office highlighting the risk of mobile phone signal disruption as well. Rainfall is expected to be heavy, with totals ranging from 20 to 30 mm across many areas, while up to 70 mm may fall on higher ground. There is also a possibility of snow on elevated terrain, particularly on the highest grounds of Northern Ireland.
In response, the Education Authority for Northern Ireland has said that it does not anticipate issuing general school closures. However, local school leaders have been advised to assess local conditions and make decisions accordingly. Authorities are also warning that some communities may be cut off by flooded roads as rainfall continues to spread across the region.
The Republic of Ireland is also bracing for impact, with Met Eireann issuing yellow-level warnings for rain and wind in several counties, including Carlow, Kilkenny, Louth, and Wexford. The storm’s rain will fall on already saturated ground, heightening the risk of localized flooding. Meteorologist Rebecca Cantwell of Met Eireann noted that the winds will be particularly intense along the coast, with rain expected to exacerbate the flooding risk in areas with rivers nearing full capacity.
Authorities in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are urging the public to remain vigilant as the storm progresses, with updated warnings expected to follow as conditions evolve.
