WATCH: Torrential rain and strong winds hitting Ireland today ahead of Storm Ashley this weekend

Torrential rain and strong winds are already hitting Ireland ahead of the arrival of Storm Ashley this weekend. 

Very heavy downpours are crossing the country with Met Eireann warning that outbreaks of rain will spread eastwards over the country this afternoon, turning heavy in places. A clearance will arrive into Atlantic coastal counties by evening. 

Met Eireann has issued a series of Weather Warnings for Storm Ashley which is set to the hit country on Sunday. 

As of Friday afternoon, there is a Status Orange Wind Warning for Galway and Mayo with the rest of Ireland covered by a Status Yellow Warning.

For the most up to date information on Storm Ashley CLICK HERE to see the Met Eireann Weather Warnings