The Irish Coast Guard has issued a stark warning as Storm Eunice is set to hit Ireland.
Met Eireann has issued a red alert for coastal areas from Howth Head to Roches Point tomorrow.
The red alert will be in place from 00:30 to 12:00.
Walkers have been urged to stay away from any exposed areas, including seafront and cliff walkways, as they may be hit by sudden gusts.
The public has also been advised to avoid all other forms of open water recreation, including by experienced practitioners, as it may result in arousing public concerns and causing rescue services to be alerted.
Coast Guard Operations Manager Micheal O’Toole appealed to the public to remain vigilant, to avoid any unnecessary travel and to monitor Met Éireann weather forecasts.
He added: “Remember Stay back, Stay high, Stay dry. If you see somebody in trouble on the water or on the coast dial 112 or use marine VHF channel 16, and ask for the Coast Guard.”
The Department of Transport has also warned the public to heed all safety public messages during Storm Eunice.
A spokesperson said: "Bringing severe winds and in some places a combination of snow and severe wind, Storm Eunice will make conditions for safe travel very difficult, particularly in red and orange alert areas."
People have been urged to pay close attention to updates from key transport agencies including the National Transport Authority, Road Safety Authority, Transport Infrastructure Ireland and Bus Éireann.
Those intending to travel by air or ferry should check directly with flight/ferry operators as to the status in case of service disruption.
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