Galway City Council is deploying flood protection measures for Storm Jorge as Met Eireann has issued it highest level of weather alert.
A Status Red weather warning, the highest level of alert, has been issued for Galway and Clare between 1pm and 4pm on Saturday as Storm Jorge batters the west coast of Ireland.
During that time Galway will is forecast the worst of Storm Jorge, with winds of 85-100km/hr and gusts reaching up to 145km/hr and an elevated risk of coastal flooding.
A Status Orange warning will come into effect well before that, at 6am tomorrow, and will remain in force until 3am on Sunday.
The inflatable water dam has been been deployed at the Spanish Arch to protect against any overtopping caused by the winds.
While the Promenade in Salthill has not been ordered closed yet, it will only remain open as long as it is safe, and “will almost certainly be closed to traffic during the Status Red period” the city council said in a statement.
Car Parks along the Prom and at Toft Park will be closed on Saturday during the storm the council also said.
Other facilities which will be closed tomorrow include Leisureland in Salthill, Bohermore and Rahoon cemeteries, and Galway City Museum.
Druid Theatre Company’s matinee performance of The Cherry Orchard at the Black Box Theatre scheduled for 3pm has been cancelled, but the 8pm performance is currently expected to go ahead.
“Members of the public are advised to caution outdoors at all times and motorists are advised to heed the Road Safety Authority’s warning regarding journeys during the Status RED period.
People are being asked to be watchful and check on elderly neighbours during Storm Jorge.
The ESB is also advising people to keep mobile phones charged as widespread power outages are expected.
A status yellow rainfall warning is also in place today, and will remain in force until 3am on Sunday.
During that time Galway could receive up to 30mm of rain, or possibly up to 50mm in mountainous areas.
This also poses a serious flooding risk as the county is already severely flooded after a long period of rain.
