Kilkenny lashed by strongest gusts in almost a year, as winds clock 75kph

Kilkenny is being lashed by strong winds and rain at present, and it looks set to continue for the remainder of the evening.

A Status Yellow Wind warning is in effect in Kilkenny since 5am on Thursday morning, and it will remain in place until 2am on Friday. Niall Dollard of KilkennyWeather.com says he's recorded a 75km/h gust - the strongest in almost a year.

Tonight, winds will gradually weaken to a fresh westerly wind, and showers will continue with some clear intervals. 

A continued chance of hail or isolated lightning is likely, particularly in Atlantic counties.

Lowest temperatures of 3 to 6 degrees.