Met Éireann warns of heavy rain and thunder as new warnings take effect

MET Éireann is warning of heavy rainfall and possible thunder in places ahead of the weekend.

The national forecaster has issued status yellow rainfall warnings for several counties across the country - Dublin, Louth, Meath, Wicklow and Kerry.

"Heavy rain or showers with chance of thunder," states the warning which adds that possible impacts include localised flooding and dangerous travelling conditions.

The latest weather warnings, which were issued in the early hours of this Friday, will remain in place until 9pm.

Gardai and the Road Safety Authority are particularly appealing to motorists to exercise caution if travelling during any bad weather.

Separately, the UK Met Office has issued a status yellow rain warning for all of Northern Ireland. That warning remains in place until 9am on Saturday.