Over 10,000 homes are without power as Ophelia batters the south west of the country.
Hundreds of businesses across all counties have shut their doors, to protect the safetly of their customers and staff.
IKEA, Dunnes Stores, Eddie Rockets, Peter Mark, Penneys and Brown Thomas will all remain shut as Ophelia travels through the country.
People have been told to stay inside and not travel unless it's absolutely necessary.
Insurance Ireland has advised motorists to heed the warnings in place from the authorities and avoid all non-essential travel.
Substantial damage caused after high winds caused a roof to collapse and land on a taxi in Kinsale #Ophelia pic.twitter.com/Bt0iMSgFLc
— Today FM (@TodayFM) October 16, 2017
Motor insurance cover operates as normal today, as it does every other day. This is not impacted by the weather conditions.
Damage to cars caused by the storm is covered by comprehensive motor insurance policies.
#Ophelia Home insurance and comprehensive car insurance are both valid for storm damage https://t.co/PSzIBsvOzE
— AA Roadwatch (@aaroadwatch) October 16, 2017
Third party fire and theft policies cover motorists for damage to other cars in the event of an accident, injury to other people, or damage to your car in the event of a fire or theft.
Home insurance policyholders should be aware of the following information:
• Household buildings and contents insurance policies will cover damage caused by storms.
• Insurers will usually pay for the cost of temporary repairs, so please keep receipts.
• Insurers will also usually pay for the cost of alternative accommodation, if the home becomes uninhabitable.
• Householders should check the full extent of their policies and contact their insurer or broker after the event.
The message from An Garda Síochána is to stay safe, stay inside and avoid making any unnecessary journeys.
Important numbers for storm #Opheila across the country - spread the word! #StaySafe pic.twitter.com/VoN9PRew8p
— Today FM (@TodayFM) October 16, 2017
