Thunderstorms Spread Across Country
Widespread thunderstorm activity developed across parts of Leinster, east Connacht and east Munster this afternoon.
Met Éireann issued a Status Yellow rainfall alert for the northwest earlier in the day, but thundery downpours were also reported in other regions.
Cloud-to-ground lightning strikes were recorded in Leinster and Connacht, including in an area between Bagenalstown, Co Carlow, and Bunclody, Co Wexford, and near Mohill in County Leitrim.
Clearer spells will develop overnight with an ongoing risk of isolated thunderstorms developing.
It was a blustery day countrywide with Mace Head in Galway recording a 79 km/h gust of wind.
Met Éireann earlier issued a Status Yellow rain warning for Donegal, Leitrim, and Sligo, with spells of heavy rain and the risk of isolated thunderstorms expected through tomorrow morning.
The alert came into effect at 10am this morning, and will remain in place until 10am tomorrow, Friday.
Met Éireann has cautioned of potential impacts including localised flooding, poor visibility, and difficult travelling conditions, particularly on roads prone to surface water.
The unsettled conditions mark the continuation of a mobile Atlantic weather pattern that has dominated this week, with further showers and longer spells of rain expected through the weekend.
