Traffic restrictions expected in Cork city this evening due to tidal flooding

Traffic restrictions are expected to be put in place in the city centre this evening during high tide times, including at Wandesford Quay, Lavitt's Quay and Union Quay.

Cork City Council’s Flood Assessment Team met this evening to discuss the Status Orange rain warning in place for Cork until 1pm tomorrow.

The traffic restrictions are expected to be put in place this evening due to expected tidal flooding.

Heavy rain and strong and gusty east-to-southeast winds that could result in flooding, poor visibility, dangerous road conditions, and possible wave overtopping at high tide have been forecast by Met Éireann.

⚠️Traffic restrictions are expected to be in place during high tide at 7.50pm this evening on Wandesford Quay, Lavitt's Quay and Union Quay - due to localised tidal flooding.⚠️ pic.twitter.com/JnX2ekI4tj

— Cork City Council (@corkcitycouncil) October 17, 2023

The Council has advised of a tidal flooding risk in the city as persistent rain - 60mm to 70mm - is expected tonight and tomorrow morning and strong easterly and southeasterly winds of up to 60km per hour are also forecast.

High tide is due to occur at 7.50pm this evening and at 8.10am tomorrow.

The Council has also advised of the risk of fluvial (river) flooding west of the city centre and in the city centre due to the combination of heavy rainfall and quantum of rain expected.

“Flooding of the River Lee from Inniscarra to the Lee Fields is likely and the Rivers Curraheen, Shournagh and Bride are also at risk of localised flooding,” a spokesperson said.

“Localised flooding is expected at high tide this evening and tomorrow, Wednesday morning on low-lying city centre quays such as Morrison's Island, Wandesford Quay, Union Quay and Lavitt's Quay.” 

Cork City Council crews are on standby in the city centre and across the wider city.

People are advised that property damage is not expected, however, commuter visibility may be impaired and motorists and cyclists are urged to be extra cautious when travelling.