In light of severe weather warnings issued by Met Éireann ahead of the arrival of Storm Erik in Ireland on Friday, February 8, the Irish Coast Guard is calling on the general public and all mariners to heed the warnings and take appropriate action.
The Coast Guard is asking users of smaller vessels to pay particular attention to the weather warnings and for the general public to be mindful of the risks on exposed areas in particular piers, walkways and cliff areas. The Coast Guard wishes to remind recreational walkers to stay back, stay high and stay dry.
An Orange warning for 130km/h gusts is valid in Mayo, Galway and Donegal on Friday, while a Status Yellow for 110km/h gusts is in place for the rest of the country.
"Sudden wind gusts or waves can result in serious accidents," the Coast Guard says.
"As always if you see anybody in trouble or think they are in trouble along the coast or at sea dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard."