Swimming restrictions have been placed on seven beaches around Donegal due to the threat of increased bacteria as a result of forecasted heavy rainfall.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued the warnings, which will take effect for 72 hours from tomorrow, via its beaches.ie website.
The affected Donegal beaches are: Lisfannon, Lady’s Bay (Buncrana Shorefront), Downings, Rathmullan, Portsalon, Fintra and Bundoran.
Heavy rainfall can lead to increased surface water run-off, potentially affecting bathing water quality, according to the notice.
Water samples are due to be collected, with the warning to remain in place until the results of bacterial testing have been received.
Swimmers are advised not to swallow or splash through the water and to wash their hands before eating or preparing food. Anyone with an open cut or wound should stay out of the water, while pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are also being advised not to swim.
Officials say elevated bacteria levels are generally temporary and that most people who enter the water are unlikely to become ill.
Despite this, beachgoers are being asked to follow the advice and refrain from swimming at the affected locations for the duration of the 72-hour restriction.