Atlantic Surge Hidden Surf Bonus for Sligo

THE BIG storm forecast further up the Atlantic coastline could yet have a bonus in hiding for Sligo.Mullaghmore Head is seen as Irelands premier big-wave spot and surf swell predictions have been rated at four-star for today and tomorrow. Today, surf swells could be between 18 and 28 feet between noon and 3pm, with winds (and gusts) of 47 to 50 miles per hour predicted. Earlier predictions were for waves as high as 29 feet coming up to noon today at Mullaghmore.Backed by the expected wind speeds that could lead to waves with heights of up to 60 feet on their approach to the North Sligo shore.  An orange warning, the second highest alert, has been issued by Met Éireann for counties Wexford, Galway, Mayo, Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick and Waterford ahead of todays Atlantic storm. The Coast Guard also issued a statement last night, according to this mornings edition of The Irish Times.

Extreme Caution

It is strongly advised the public not to go out on exposed coasts, cliffs, piers, harbour walls, beaches, promenades or any other coastal areas during the stormy weather.

The public should exercise extreme caution and venture out only where necessary. Also, dont go out alone, and have a method of raising the alarm if necessary. - Irish Coast Guard manager Declan Geoghegan

Meanwhile, a specialist website is giving maximum five stars to Mullaghmore Head in its longer-range surf forecast for swells later this week.

Winds will have moderated to 15 miles per hour by then after the expected Atlantic storm, while wave heights are predicted at seven to 11 feet on Wednesday at noon. Sligo and the North West have become the surfing capital of the country. Apart from Mullaghmore, nearby popular surfing sites include Strandhill, Easkey, Bundoran and Rossnowlagh. Surfers who often arrive from outside the region to chase the swells are towed out by jet ski and released ahead of the wave, which they then ride or surf.