STORM UPDATE: Fresh warning for Kilkenny as Lorenzo hits, local charity offers shelter to homeless

By COLIN BARTLEY

WITH the worst of Tropical Storm Lorenzo yet to come, Met Éireann has issued a fresh storm warning for Kilkenny and the South East – it could be worse than previously thought.

With this warning, a Kilkenny city charity is reaching out to those who would be seriously affected by Storm Lorenzo.

The Good Shepherd Centre in Kilkenny has issued an appeal for anyone sleeping rough, or anyone who knows people who sleep rough, to contact them as the centre can offer shelter. They can be reached on 056 7722 566.

Earlier this morning Met Éireann issued a specific Yellow Wind and Severe Rain Warning for Kilkenny and the South East and said: “Southwesterly winds of mean speeds 50 to 65km/h with gusts of 90 to 100kph, some stronger are expected. The warning is valid from 6pm this evening until 6am tomorrow.”

The warning is for counties Cork, Waterford, Tipperary, Wexford and South Kilkenny.

The national forecaster is advising caution as they fear the force of the storm could down trees and flood roads.

A Met Éireann spokesperson said: “Trees are mostly in full leaf with a large surface area, so even moderate strength winds can bring down weakened trees and/or tree limbs.

“In addition, some trees may be compromised due to saturated soils at the moment, and with more rain likely some disruption due to falling trees/branches is likely. The rain, coupled with falling leaves may block drains and gullies, leading to surface flooding.”

Once the full force of Storm Lorenzo hits Kilkenny, Met Éireann says it will pass quickly but its effects will be felt well into tomorrow.