Lorenzo is expected to transition to tropical storm status by the time it reaches Ireland.
Met Éireann has issued a weather advisory for the entire country as Storm Lorenzo looms.
Though currently classed as a Category 5 hurricane, Lorenzo is expected to downgrade to a tropical storm by the time it reaches Ireland later this week.
With emergency teams in standby mode, Met Éireann has taken the precaution, as of Tuesday afternoon, of issuing the nationwide advisory.
“There is a high probability that Storm Lorenzo will track close to or over Ireland later on Thursday and early Friday, giving high seas, severe winds and heavy rain,” it notes.
Official warnings are set to be issued on Wednesday morning.
As of now, Tuesday’s advisory is valid from Thursday 3 October at midday until Friday 4 October at midday.
Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy issued a statement late on Monday night noting that the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency management in his department is working with Met Éireann to track the hurricane.
Murphy noted that the Office of Public Works (OPW) has confirmed that high seas and potential storm surges may occur along the coastline.
“We have contacted all local authorities, requesting that they monitor Met Éireann’s forecasts, and prepare for storm impacts by activating Crisis Management and Local Co-ordination arrangements,” said the minister.
“We have also contacted DTTS (Transport Operators and IRCG), An Garda Síochána (public safety messaging), ESBN, OPW and Irish Water.”
Murphy added that all departments have been requested to have their staff on standby in the event of a required emergency meeting at short notice.
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