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23rd December 2016
10:51am GMT

Opening the curtains this morning to see trees blowing violently, rain pelting down and people running around with brollies.
It's a miserable, miserable sight.
And we all must remember that weather conditions like these can often cause accidents and so The Road Safety Authority is asking road users to exercise caution while using the roads today after Met Éireann issued an orange weather wind warning for coastal regions.
Gusts of 120 km/h can be expected – pure windy.
#StormBarbara already bringing heavy rain ???? and strong winds ???? in NW Britain with gusts of 55-85mph. ⚠️#beprepared pic.twitter.com/c542Y6mr6u
— Simon King (@SimonOKing) December 23, 2016
Wet & windy this morning as heavy rain spreads eastwards. A clearance to blustery showers follows from W in the afternoon. Highs of 11or12C
— Met Éireann (@MetEireann) December 23, 2016
A yellow wind warning is also in place for the rest of the country with gusts of up to 90-110km/h expected.
So take extreme caution on roads today.
The RSA is asking road users to check local weather and traffic conditions and be aware of the conditions before setting out on a trip.
With added risks posed by wet or flooded roads the RSA also has the following advice;
The Coast Guard is requesting members of the public planning on engaging in any coastal activities to first check that it is safe to do and to be mindful of the risks and life threatening dangers that can arise without warning.
Those who intend on partaking in Christmas day swims should only do so in groups and take great care.
"Lone swimming should be avoided and all swimmers should be cognisant that time in the water should be kept to a minimum as even the most experienced of swimmers can easily succumb to cramp or cold water shock."
If you see anybody having trouble in the water, along the coast or cliffs you should call 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
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