Air passengers can expect significant delays today as a result of extreme weather conditions at Irish airports.

Gale force winds of up to 130 kilometres per hour last night caused a number of flights to be diverted or cancelled at Dublin and Cork airports. The Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) says this will have a knock on effect on the schedule today as a number of aircraft are out of position as a result.

Intending passengers should check with their airline or airline website regarding the status of their flight before travelling to the airport.

In a statement, Aer Lingus also says high winds at Dublin and Cork last night meant diversions of a large number of aircraft from their intended Irish destinations to UK airports. It says many of the scheduled flights this morning are therefore cancelled or significantly delayed.

While Ryanair says flights departing to and from Dublin and Cork are operating normally today. This follows some cancellations yesterday.

Meanwhile Ferry services have also been effected. Irish Ferries has cancelled its Dublin-Holyhead sailings today while Stena Lines' Rosslare Fishguard crossing has also been cancelled. Motorists are also being advised to drive with extreme care and watch out for spot flooding and fallen tress.

Meteorologist with Met Eireann John Eagleton says the winds today will not be as strong as yesterday.