Met Eireann has issued three weather warnings ahead of the arrival of Storm Lorenzo later today.
People have been advised to stay indoors from 6pm where possible and not to go near any coastal or sea areas.
The weather system is expected to make landfall in Ireland shortly, potentially causing dangerous driving conditions and even walking conditions in coastal and high areas.
High winds with gusts of up to 130km/h and gigantic waves will punish coastal areas, while thunder and lightning are almost certain to cause widespread power outages.
Torrential downpours might lead to localized flooding in many areas, as Storm Ophelia did.
Met Eireann, the national weather forecaster has issued a status Orange weather warning for the entire country until further notice.
Met Eireann, the national weather forecaster has issued a Status Orange warning for counties Galway, Mayo, Clare, Cork, Kerry and Limerick, starting at 6pm on Thursday until at least 3am on Friday.
Met Eireann may yet upgrade that to a Status Red, the highest possible, signifying risk to life and property.
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