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Met Éireann have warned of loose debris as a result of the strong incoming winds. Alamy Stock Photo

Get the outdoor decorations down and charge the phone - how to prep for Storm Bram

Batton down the inflatables (actually, no, just take them down).

LAST UPDATE | 9 Dec 2025

STORM BRAM IS well and truly here, and people are being urged not to think about putting up any more Christmas decorations.

Instead, the public is being advised to take down or secure anything outside that could take flight in the stormy winds today.

Outdoor lights, inflatables, wreaths and garden ornaments are all at risk of becoming dangerous projectiles, emergency officials have warned.

A Status Orange wind warning is currently in effect in nine counties, and will impact the rest of the country later today.

The Office of Emergency Planning is asking people to use today to get ready: charge phones, secure loose items (including decorations) and avoid all unnecessary travel once the orange alert kicks in.

The ESB is also urging the public to take extra care with outdoor Christmas decorations.

It warned that decorations could become loose or airborne due to high winds.

The ESB has advised that all outdoor decorations be removed or securely fastened to prevent them from blowing away.

Decorations should never be attached to electricity poles, wires, or ESB Networks equipment, and outdoor lights should be switched off and unplugged during severe weather to reduce electrical risks.

If decorations become entangled in electricity wires or poles, do not attempt to retrieve them and contact ESB Networks immediately.

Elsewhere, both Met Éireann and ESB are advising people in affected areas to make sure that there’s ample food and water supplies in the house, and to check in with neighbours, older people or anyone who may need assistance in case conditions worsen.

Strong winds are expected to make driving hazardous, particularly for cyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists and drivers of high-sided vehicles.

Road users should expect fallen branches, debris and surface water, and are being urged not to attempt to drive through floodwater.

Rivers and streams already swollen after persistent rain should be avoided, as banks may give way without warning.

Coastal areas are likely to bear the brunt, with Met Éireann warning of wave overtopping, storm surge and tidal flooding during high tides.

The Irish Coast Guard is repeating its advice to “stay back, stay high, stay dry”.

ESB Networks is reminding people to stay well away from any fallen electricity wires and report them to 1800 372 999. Uisce Éireann says customers should monitor its website, social media or 24-hour helpline for updates.

The Irish Coast Guard has reiterated its advice to the public to “stay back, stay high, stay dry”.

ESB Networks is reminding people to stay well clear of any fallen electricity wires and to report them immediately to its emergency line on 1800 372 999, while Uisce Éireann is asking customers to monitor its website, social media or its 24-hour helpline for updates.

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