Storm Ophelia Didn't Put Some People Off Trying To Go For A Swim

This is not a good idea.

A number of people have been criticised for swimming in the sea during Storm Ophelia, despite repeated warnings not to.

Ireland has borne the brunt of the storm, downgraded from a hurricane, with winds of up to 118mph recorded.

People take selfies in waves and high wind at Lahinch in County Clare
People take selfies in waves and high wind at Lahinch in County Clare
PA Wire/PA Images

But while most people sheltered indoors, some bright sparks decided Monday was the day to take a dip.

One woman was caught on Sky News trying to enter the sea at Salthill, Galway:

Dave and Steve Flynn, restaurant owners who go by “The Happy Pear”, took down a picture from Instagram of their dip at Greystones, Wicklow, after facing criticism.

The Irish Coast Guard also said it had to rescue some kite surfers who got into difficulty:

The Coast Guard has repeatedly warned people to stay away from the coast as Ophelia whips strong waves up.

Two people have died so far due to the storm.

A man in his 30s died in a chainsaw accident after trying to remove a down tree in Cahir, Co Tipperary, police said.

A woman in her 50s was driving close to the village of Aglish in Waterford when she was killed when a tree fell on her car at about 11.40am.

People battle the waves and high wind at Lahinch in County Clare on the West Coast of Ireland
People battle the waves and high wind at Lahinch in County Clare on the West Coast of Ireland
PA Wire/PA Images

Gardaí Police said that a female passenger, in her mid 70s, was injured and taken to hospital with “non life-threatening injuries”. Emergency services are still at scene.

Police have warned road users not to go outside following reports that trees have been uprooted due to high winds.

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