Orange thunderstorm warning for nine counties

Met Éireann has issued an orange thunderstorm warning for nine counties including Westmeath and Roscommon.

The warning is in force from 3pm to 10pm today (Saturday).

Thunderstorms and very heavy showers are predicted for the affected counties producing significant accumulations over short time periods.

There could also be flash flooding, difficult travelling conditions with reduced visibility and power outages.

A less serious and more localised yellow thunderstorm warning is in force in most of the remainder of the counties, including Offaly.