Members of the public have been urged to stay away from an adult seal and her pup that are sheltering on Bray beach as Hurricane Lorenzo approaches.
Strong winds and powerful waves have been battering the east coast and locals were left concerned after spotting the young seal resting on the beach alone.
However, his mother has since been spotted returning to the shore to feed the youngster as weather conditions continue to deteriorate.
Seals are known to abandon their young if they detect human scent on their pup and gardai have warned people to keep their dogs on leads and not to approach the pair.
Experts say that the pup may need up to three whole weeks on the beach to shed its white fur before being ready to take to sea with it's mother.
Garda Siochana Wicklow said: "We have been asked that the public be made aware of a seal pup resting on Bray beach, most likely left by his mother until the weather calms down.
"Advice from Seal Rescue Ireland is to stay away and let nature take its course. Keep dogs on leads and do not approach."
On Wednesday night, locals erected cordoning tape to warn other members of the public to stay away.
Local councillor Joe Behan added: "Please be aware that a new born seal pup and its mother are on Bray beach.
"Please do not approach them or allow your dog to go anywhere near the seal pup as its mother will abandon it.
"Do not put the seal pup back in the water as it cannot swim.
"Please share this message. Thank you."
Met Eireann has warned of "severe weather" as the latest predicted path for Lorenzo shows the cyclone sweeping across Ireland.
It's believed its winds will be as strong as 105km/h when it makes its way to Ireland, with gusts of up to 120km/h possible.
