The public have been urged to keep their distance from an adult seal and her pup that are sheltering on Bray beach as Storm Lorenzo approaches.
Powerful waves and strong winds have been battering the east coast and locals were left concerned when they spotted the young seal alone on the beach.
The pup's mother has since been spotted returning to the shore to feed her youngster as weather conditions look set to deteriorate.
Gardai have warned people to keep dogs on leads and not approach the pair as seals have been known to abandon their young if they pick up a human scent on their pup, reports the Irish Mirror .
According to experts, it may take the pup up to three weeks to shed its white fur and then take to the see with its 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."
Locals erected a cordoning tape on Wednesday night to warn members of the public to stay away.
Local councillor Joe Behan said: "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."
Another seal pup has been spotted taking refuge from the waves in Howth.
Met Eireann has warned of "severe weather" as the latest predicted path for Lorenzo shows the cyclone sweeping across Ireland.
Winds as strong as 105km/h may make their way to Ireland, with gusts of up to 120km/h possible.
