Stay off the phone and don't use umbrellas in lightning as Met Eireann issue thunderstorm warning

Met Eireann issued an Orange weather warning as "intense thunderstorms" hit Dublin today.

The Orange Thunderstorm warning affects Dublin, Kildare, Louth, Meath and Wicklow. It is in place from 13:58 until 17:00 today and warns of "further thunderstorms with intense lightning strikes with some disruption".

There are reports that a wind turbine was struck by lightning off the coast of Arklow and went on fire. You can follow our live updates here.

But is thunder and lightning dangerous? Here's all you need to know thanks to the UK's Met Office.

What to do and not to do in a thunderstorm

• Lightning can cause power surges, unplug any non-essential appliances if not already using a surge protector.
• Seek shelter if possible. When you hear thunder you are already within range of where the next ground flash may occur, lightning can strike as far as 10 miles away from the centre of a storm.
• Telephone lines can conduct electricity so try to avoid using the landline, unless in an emergency
• If outside avoid water and find a low-lying open place that is a safe distance from trees, poles or metal objects
• Avoid activities such as golf, rod fishing or boating on a lake
• Be aware of metal objects that can conduct or attract lightning, including golf clubs, golf buggies, fishing rods, umbrellas, motorbikes, bicycles, wheelchairs, mobility scooters, pushchairs, wire fencing and rails. If you are in a tent, try to stay away from the metal poles
• If you find yourself in an exposed location it may be advisable to squat close to the ground, with hands on knees and with head tucked between them. Try to touch as little of the ground with your body as possible, do not lie down on the ground
• If you feel your hair stand on end, drop to the above position immediately

Read more: Changed dates for payments due to October bank holiday

Driving in a thunderstorm

The Met Office says: "If you are caught out in thunder and lightning it is advised that you wind up the windows and stay inside your car. This is because in the vast majority of cars with a metal roof and frame, the frame will act as a conductive Faraday cage, passing the current around the passengers inside and on to the ground."

Read next:

• Dunnes Stores announce major refunds and exchanges change in lead up to Christmas

• The most recent Dublin cafes and restaurants to sadly shut down

• Wexford TD slammed for comment about 'druggies' on Dublin's O'Connell Street

• Distraught Dublin dad in desperate attempt to get surrogate triplets to Ireland

• Two children in hospital with 'serious injuries' after Dublin city centre crash