Concerns Over Return of ‘Beast From the East’ and Stormy Conditions That Damaged Irish Harbours

12th February 2023

Afloat.ie Team

Howth Harbour battered by huge sea swells and high winds amid Storm Emma on 2 March 2018 Credit: W M Nixon

Ireland could be set for the return of the ‘Beast from the East’ with meteorologists eyeing an upcoming weather phenomenon with concern, as Independent.ie reports.

Experts say that a so-called sudden stratospheric warming forecast for the coming days could cause the jet stream, which helps moderate Ireland’s climate, to meander more — bringing an outbreak of cold and dry weather later this month.

Similar conditions brought about the ‘Beast from the East’ blizzard in late February 2018 that blanketed much of the country with snow ahead of Storm Emma, which caused significant damage to harbours around Ireland and the UK.

Dun Laoghaire Harbour was among the worst affected, with the storm eroding coastal defences from both the West and East Piers that took more than two years to be remediated.

Howth’s historic Howth 17s also bore the brunt of the storm, as Force 12 gales blew the roof off a storage shed housing seven of the boats – though only two of them suffered serious damage.

Independent.ie has more on the story HERE.

Published in Weather, Irish Harbours

Published in Weather

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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.

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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.