14 counties facing 'potential danger to life' as Storm Debi hits
In the fourth storm warning in seven weeks, hazardous conditions are expected throughout the country. Picture: Andy Gibson
Clare and Galway were among 14 counties under threat overnight of a “potential danger to life” due to high winds as Storm Debi hit Ireland.
It was the fourth storm warning issued in the past seven weeks, with further flooding and hazardous conditions expected throughout the country today.
The entire country had wind and rain weather warnings in place amid a threat of thunderstorms and hail, while damage could be expected to power lines and vulnerable buildings.
The Road Safety Authority advised all road users to "take extreme care" as Storm Debi developed.
As environmental scientists warn that the increase in global temperatures is changing the climate in real time, Storm Debi has arrived just weeks after Storm Agnes, Babet, and Cíarán wreaked havoc to varying degrees across the country.
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Record levels of rain across the country this year meant the ground has had no respite in saturation levels, leading to increases in the chances of flooding.
Communities all over Ireland have been devastated by flooding in recent weeks, with the likes of Midleton and Newry badly hit.
It comes as a major climate conference is announced for Cork this month.
Former president and UN human rights commissioner-turned climate-change campaigner Mary Robinson will be among the speakers at University College Cork’s first Sustainable Futures Forum.
The event will see attendees from international development, business, academia, and the media converge on the Glucksman Gallery just days before the UN-backed climate change summit Cop28 kicks off in Dubai.
Sustainable urban and rural development, the role of technology and innovation within industry, ensuring climate justice, and the role of the media on climate change are among the topics that will be examined during the forum, UCC said.
Energy analyst for the World Bank, Roberto Estevez, Massachusetts Institute of Technology director of sustainability Dr Julie Newman, and Ibec chief executive Danny McCoy will speak at the event.
editor Tom Fitzpatrick will also take part in a panel discussion on engaging audiences on climate action.
“Over 500 researchers are engaged on sustainability at UCC and our research has shaped key national climate policies as we look to create a sustainable future," said UCC president Professor John O’Halloran.
According to the landmark Paris Agreement of 2015, a 1.5C rise in temperatures was set as the limit globally, compared to 1850-1900, in order to stave off the worst fallout from climate change.
The Paris Agreement has led to a number of deals to reduce emissions being struck between governments across the world at Cop events in the years since, but they have struggled to turn such agreements into meaningful action.
This year's Cop28 event is in Dubai, with its hosts attracting criticism for ties to fossil fuels.
Check out the Irish Examiner's WEATHER CENTRE for regularly updated short and long range forecasts wherever you are. Rainfall and temperature charts are also available.
