WARNING: People urged to 'shelter in place' as country braces for 'extremely dangerous' Storm Éowyn

The National Emergency Co-ordination Group (NECG) has met again on Thursday as the entire country braces for Storm Éowyn.

Met Éireann's Status Red weather warnings are due to come into effect overnight on Thursday and into Friday across the country.

The NECG has warned that the coming storm will be "extremely dangerous, damaging and disruptive." They have urged people to "shelter in place" by staying indoors and avoiding any unnecessary travel.

All schools will be closed on Friday along with early learning and childcare facilities, and employers are being asked to facilitate working from home for all employees who can do so.

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They have also stated: "Only emergency service workers should be leaving home for work, where directed by their employer. The NECG encourages employers in cases where people cannot work from home to adopt a flexible, pragmatic and practical approach."

Public transport will also be severely impacted with no transport operations on Friday during the red warning. People have been advised that it could take some time for services to resume depending on the impact of the storm in different areas.

For anyone travelling overseas, the NECG said: "Air and ferry passengers seeking updates regarding specific flights or ferry crossings, should contact their airline or ferry operator directly."

Commenting on the approaching storm, Chair of the NECG, Keith Leonard, said: "Storm Éowyn is set to be one of the most severe storms Ireland has seen. It is going to be a damaging, dangerous and destructive weather event. The forecasted winds will bring severe conditions which will constitute a risk to life and property. Our most important message today is everybody needs to shelter in place during the Red Level Wind Warnings."

He added: "We are likely to see significant and widespread power outages, so I would encourage everyone to prepare ahead. Make sure phones, torches and laptops are fully charged. Ensure that there is no loose garden furniture or other items on your property that could cause problems in strong winds. Check that vulnerable and older people have everything they need in their home.

"It’s also important to remember that even after the storm has passed, there is a strong possibility of fallen trees and other debris so drivers are also urged to take care in the aftermath of the storm."

The NECG is due to meet again on Friday morning.