Evelyn Cusack says these are the areas most at risk when Storm Callum arrives

Storm Callum is fast approaching and Met Éireann's Head of Forecasting, Evelyn Cusack, has given her predictions.

The storm is likely to hit tonight, but at different times around the country (more on that here) and it's also expected to hit some places worse than others. The south and west coasts are "most at risk" due to flooding and there are certain counties which should remain on high alert until the storm has passed. Speaking on RTÉ's Today with Sean O'Rourke, Evelyn explained that Cork and Kerry are most likely to feel the brunt of the storm together with western counties. The east coast may experience some 'localised flooding' but it is not expected to be widespread, unlike the aforementioned counties. According to RTÉ, a portable dam will be installed at Spanish Arch in Galway City and floodgates will also be put up at Salthill in a bid to stem the expected extreme flooding. Last night, Met Éireann issued an updated status orange weather warning for 13 counties.

Wind Warnings have been updated for Storm Callum for Thursday night and Friday morning. Orange level for coastal counties, Yellow level inland. Note: Wind strengths remain the same, changes to validity times. Warning info: https://t.co/ozrQHtoOkt#StormCallum pic.twitter.com/oimzDlQgbB

— Met Éireann (@MetEireann) October 10, 2018

An orange warning means that people should "be prepared" and it issued by the national forecaster in times of wind speeds with the capacity to produce dangerous, stormy conditions which may constitute a risk to life and property. It warns that people in the affected areas should:

• Stay away from exposed coastal areas for the period of the ORANGE warning.

• Drive to anticipate strong cross winds and other hazards such as falling/fallen trees. High sided vehicles and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to strong winds – slow down and give extra space to pedestrians and cyclists.

• Be aware of local conditions in your area; wind strengths can vary significantly from place to place (depending on direction and local topography).