Ireland is bracing itself for it's biggest storm in over 50 years, as hurricane Ophelia makes landfall.
A status red wind weather warning is in place throughout the country, as gusts are expected to reach 130km/h.
Met Eireann says: "Violent and destructive gusts are forecast with all areas at risk and in particular the southwest and south in the morning, and eastern counties in the afternoon."
They've also said there is a 'potential risk to lives:
Met Eireann has issued a status red warning for the entire country tomorrow. I don't think I've ever seen that before... pic.twitter.com/26cfFXD5mW
— Andrew Lowth (@AndrewLowth1) October 15, 2017
This morning, Met has released a set of times they're expecting the storm to make landfall across the country.
Met Eireann advise Dubliners to stay indoors when #Ophelia peaks at 1pm. #FullyCharged with Graham and Nathan will have updates all morning. pic.twitter.com/sUTRZ5PzDx
— SPIN 1038 (@spin1038) October 16, 2017
A number of businesses are closing their doors today, as the storm is set to impact across the entire country.
One of those is Dunnes Stores:
Due to storm Ophelia - all Dunnes Stores in ROI & Northern Ireland will be closed on Monday 16th October #Ophelia
— Dunnes Stores (@dunnesstores) October 15, 2017
In terms of transport, Bus Eireann have cancelled all services until 2pm this afternoon, where they will then make a decision for the rest of the day.
Meanwhile, Dublin Bus will be running as normal until 9 o clock this morning, with 'serious disruption' thereafter.
#Ophelia - Dublin Bus services update https://t.co/0uRvRD7axh pic.twitter.com/6RbLHcPjCx
— Dublin Bus (@dublinbusnews) October 15, 2017
Luas and DART services are running as normal.
However, all outpatient appointments to the hospitals around the country have been cancelled, with any scheduled procedures on a case-by-case basis.
