Thunderstorm warning in place for Offaly

Met Éireann has issued a status yellow thunderstorm warning for 16 counties, including Offaly.

The warning came into effect at 9am this morning (Friday) and is in place until 9pm tonight.

Met Éireann has warned of localised flooding, hail damage, difficult travelling conditions, damage to utilities including power, water, gas, telecommunications and very gusty winds.

The national forecaster has said that "due to their hit and miss nature, not all areas will experience them".

The thunderstorm warning has also been issued for counties Offaly, Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Clare, Tipperary, Connacht, Kildare, Laois, Longford and Meath.