Met Éireann warn of possible localised flooding and difficult travel conditions.
HEAVY rain is set to hit Ireland this Thursday evening with the arrival of Storm Austen.
Limerick is currently included in a nationwide Status Yellow warning for rain and wind, valid from 7pm tonight, Thursday, October 22, until 10am tomorrow, Friday, October 23.
Met Éireann has announced the possibility of localised flooding with a disruption to outdoor events.
Strong and gusty north westerly winds are forecast to develop overnight on Thursday into Friday. With many trees still in full leaf and ground conditions wet, there is an increased risk of fallen trees and branches in some locations.
The warning will be in place from 7pm Thursday evening until 8am Friday morning and is set to spread eastwards across the country.
As a precaution, people are also encouraged to secure loose outdoor items, including bins, garden furniture, trampolines, signage and temporary structures.
Road users should never drive through a flooded road. Flood water may be deeper than it appears and can conceal debris, hazards or damage to the road surface.
Storm Austen is the first named storm of the season and is set to bring difficult travel conditions.