Status yellow thunderstorm warning issued for Carlow

MET Éireann has issued a Status Yellow weather warning for Carlow and several other counties.

The thunderstorm warning, which came into effect at lunchtime this Saturday, warns of potential localised flash flooding.

"Thunderstorms bringing frequent lightning, heavy downpours, gusty winds, and a chance of hail", states the warning which also applies to 11 other counties, including Kilkenny, Kildare and Laois.

Motorists are being advised to only travel if necessary as conditions could be difficult with reduced visibility at times.

The warning remains in place until 11pm while a Status Orange thunderstorm warning is in place for 10 counties - along the west coast and in the midlands until 10pm.