Met Eireann has upgraded the Weather Alert in respect of Storm Atiyah to RED for the period from 4 to 7pm today Sunday 8th December 2019

Red Alert – Storm Atiyah: for the period 4 to 7pm this evening, Sunday 8th December – West to southwest winds veering northwest will reach mean speeds in excess of 80km/h with gusts in excess of 130km/h for a time this evening.

Extreme caution is advised, especially near the coast and on high ground.

Due to a combination of high seas and storm surge there is a possibility of coastal flooding.

The Severe Weather Local Co-ordination Team has met to assess the threat and is asking members of the public to heed the advice and information provided by Met Éireann.

Due to the potential dangers members of the public are advised to stay indoors during the period of the alert.

The Team are aware that today is a significant day for Christmas shopping and events but are asking members of the public to take necessary precautions during this Red weather event including:

Ensure you are indoors during the period of the red alert (4pm to 7pm).
Take care when travelling for shopping or to the many Christmas activities.
Securing items or property which are susceptible to high winds such as hoarding, signage, Christmas lights / decorations, garden furniture, bins, trampolines and other items which are outdoors.

For motorists and pedestrians out and about on Sunday, please take care on all roads and be mindful of the possibilities of debris, fallen trees and branches or power lines etc.

Exercise caution when out and about particularly in exposed areas and coastal areas.

Kerry County Council will provide updates and further advisories through the local media and its social media channels as well as a dedicated weather alerts service on its website, www.kerrycoco.ie

The Council reminds members of the public however that there may be debris or fallen branches on roads and that all road users should be extremely vigilant while travelling this morning.

Any issues of concern can be reported to the Council’s dedicated emergency phoneline on 066 7183588.

Kerry County Council would like to acknowledge the cooperation and support of the general public in helping to ensure public safety during this severe weather event.

Due to the expected arrival of Storm Atiyah, Killarney M.D. have already closed their amenities such as Knockrear and Deerpark playgrounds. Subject to inspection they will reopen on Monday as normal.