Storm Brendan: Combination of spring tide and storm surge poses risk of structural damage
Met Éireann has warned that strong gale force to storm-force southerly winds will develop on the Irish Sea, between Cairnryan and Belfast, reaching violent storm force at times in the west. Ferries are cancelled.
There are large spring tides at the moment, with very high seas and onshore wind, so there is a huge risk of coastal flooding. A status red marine warning has also been issued.
Met Éireann says a status orange warning indicates conditions “may pose a threat to life and property”, with dangerous driving conditions and risk of falling trees.
The warnings say southerly winds veering southwesterly will reach mean speeds of 65km/h to 80km/h, with gusts up to 130km/h, higher in exposed areas.
The high winds will be accompanied by heavy rain which will develop in the west and will spread quickly across the country.
Storm Brendan has brought stormy conditions. “Expect disruption to travel and possible localised flooding especially in coastal areas. There may also be some localised structural damage and trees uprooted.”
Flood barriers
Flood defences have been erected and the car parks at Dumbarton Quay and Helensburgh Pier are in danger of flooding from the Spring Tides.
Flood barriers are in place at vulnerable locations such as the railway at Craigendoran and there are warnings that the extreme weather events “will lead to over-topping and potential flooding” along shorelines. “The severe weather assessment team will continue to monitor the situation and will put further measures in place as necessary,” the council said.
The Coast Guard has also advised the public to stay away from exposed beaches, cliffs, piers, promenades and harbours. “Breaking waves along the coast can be unpredictable and quickly drag you away. Do not approach breaking waves,” it added.
The public have been advised not to visit any national parks, national monuments or nature reserves while the warnings are in place.
Theer are high wind warnings on the Clyde bridges and Traffic Scotland has appealed to road users to exercise caution.
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