Motorists are being urged to drive with extreme care this morning, as fallen trees and debris are leading to treacherous conditions on roads across the county.
The strongest gust recorded this morning by Met Eireann’s monitoring station at Shannon Airport was 87 kilometers per hour, but wind conditions have been even stronger in coastal areas.
An orange wind warning remains in place for Clare until lunchtime today, while there’s a low level yellow alert until 5 this evening.
Roads
A number of roads are impassible due to fallen trees, including the Lack Cross to Kildysart Road, and the main Kilrush to Cooraclare road, while there’s reports of trees down and debris on the showgrounds road in Ennis, at Inch Bridge, and on the Broadford and Killaloe roads.
Transport
Bus Éireann has cancelled busses on route 333 from Doonbeg to Ennis and Route 350 from Doolin to Ennis will not operate via the Cliffs of Moher.
Power
Over 2,000 homes and businesses in parts of Clare lost power on account of the impact of the storm – supply has been restored to all but 539.
164 in the Cahercalla area of Ennis, 184 in the area North of Ennis and 149 in Ennistymon lost power due to fallen trees coming down on power lines.
Faults have also been found in Kilkee, where 37 customers are affected, there’s 1 in Kilrush and 2 in Drumquin.
The ESB is urging anyone outside of those areas who are affected by power outages to notify them immediately on 1850 372 999, so that crews can work to restore power.
Closures
The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre has been closed due to the strong winds.
St Joseph’s Secondary School, In Spanish Point is closed on account of the weather.
Parents have been notified by text and any students that have already been dropped off will be supervised until parents can collect them.
If you have any updates from your area text us on 086 1800 694 or mail us at [email protected]
Statement from the President of Ireland on Storm Ali
“Today’s strong winds can result in dangerous situations and I would urge everyone to heed the warnings by the authorities and take caution when travelling or when out in the open.
I was deeply saddened to learn that storm Ali has already claimed one victim today in Claddagduff, Co Galway. As President of Ireland, may I express my deepest condolences to her family.
I would also take this opportunity to pay tribute to all those, in statutory and voluntary organisations around the country, who are helping and stand ready to assist their fellow citizens, and who are working to maintain essential services around the country.”
