ALERT: Met Éireann warns of 'damaging wind gusts' as low-pressure system approaches

MET Éireann is warning that very strong winds are likely across the country later this week with the potential for damaging wind gusts and disruption in places.

The forecaster says a powerful low-pressure system is expected to hit Ireland on Thursday night and into Friday, bringing very strong winds with a potential for damage to be caused in places. High waves and heavy rain are also forecast for coastal areas.

Met Éireann, which is closely monitoring the situation, has issued an advisory for all of Ireland and says it will issue official weather warnings in the coming days once the forecast and path of the low-pressure system becomes clearer.

This advisory, which was issued this Monday afternoon, is valid until midnight on Saturday (Friday night).

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In its latest forecast for Friday, Met Éireann says current indications suggest that it will be a very windy day with near gale force southwesterly winds developing, "potentially reaching gale force in places".

It says there will be heavy rain at first on Friday, possibly turning to sleet or snow locally. However, the rain will clear to sunshine and showers through the day.