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'Status Red' Rain Warning As Storm Desmond Hits Ireland

4th December 2015

#Weather - Met Éireann has issued a rare Status Red rainfall warning for western counties as Storm Desmond barrels in from the Atlantic later today (Friday 4 December).

The Irish meteorological service warns of "incessant falls of heavy rain overnight and for all of Saturday" from Kerry to Donegal, with "accumulations in excess of 70mm expected" particularly on higher ground.

Slightly less rain is expected in Cavan, Limerick and Cork but accumulations of up to 70mm are likely, and will result in "flooding and treacherous driving conditions" throughout the western half of the country.

A Status Orange wind warning is in effect for the West Coast, with mean wind speeds of up to 75kmh from the southwest, gusting to 120kmh and strongest in coastal areas.

Met Éireann has declared Status Yellow for wind in Cavan, Monaghan, Roscommon, Leinster and much of Munster with 100kmh gusts expected.

For those at sea, southwesterly gales will develop on all Irish coastal waters and in the Irish Sea as the day progresses, increasing to storm force this afternoon between Loop Head and Fair Head. A Status Yellow small craft warning is in effect.

Published in Weather
MacDara Conroy

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MacDara Conroy

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MacDara Conroy is a contributor covering all things on the water, from boating and wildlife to science and business

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About Afloat.ie – Weather

At Afloat.ie – Weather, we provide timely marine and coastal weather updates relevant to Ireland’s sailing, boating, fishing and watersports communities. The page features real-time reports, storm alerts, forecasts and climate-related developments that help readers stay informed about changing conditions around the Irish coast and offshore waters. From wind patterns and wave activity to severe weather advisories, our coverage draws on trusted sources such as Met Éireann and recognised maritime authorities.

We highlight significant events — like winter storms, heat anomalies or shifts in sea temperatures — with clear, accessible summaries and links to further detail when available. Our aim is to support safer maritime activity by sharing alerts, developments and relevant commentary as they arise. While we don’t generate forecasts in-house, we curate and reference authoritative information so users can quickly spot issues that may affect planning or navigation.

Readers turn to this section for storm warnings, weather-related incidents, research news and emerging climate impacts on Irish waters. It’s a practical resource for staying aware of conditions without claiming to replace official forecasting services.