WITH another storm battering the county this Wednesday afternoon, Shannon Airport has closed temporarily. One small aircraft was blown by the wind to a point where one of its wings tipped the ground.
In a statement it has said that due to the adverse conditions all operations have been suspended until 3.30pm. According to the airport website the last flight to leave Shannon was at11.30am this morning. The last arrival was just after 11am and two flights due to arrive from London have been cancelled.
Also this afternoon a truck overturned on the Ennis-Limerick road while there are reports of trees falling all over the county.
Meanwhile, Met Éireann has a red weather alert in force. Coastal areas will experience winds increasing from storm force 10 to violent storm with some severe gusts this afternoon.
The Coast Guard particularly appeal to people to use common sense and not to place themselves in danger.
The Coast Guard strongly advises the public to stay away from exposed piers, cliff walks, harbour walls, beaches, promenades or any other coastal areas during the stormy weather.
Remember to monitor weather broadcasts when travelling and heed the advice of the RSA on road use during severe weather and high winds.
Specific advice from the Coast Guard is:
• The public is advised to stay away from the shoreline and to avoid engaging in water sports
• Do not venture out unnecessarily when gale force conditions are forecast
• Avoid exposed coasts, cliff paths and coastal areas during inclement weather
• Owners of small vessels and fishing vessels in coastal waters should seek shelter and secure them properly with moorings.
If you do see someone in difficulty in the sea, on the shore, cliffs, lakes or rivers dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
Owen Ryan has been a journalist with the Clare Champion since 2007, having previously worked with a number of other publications in Limerick, Cork and Galway. His first book will be published in December 2024.