Flooding likely in Cork city due to 'very high spring tides'

Householders and businesses in low-lying areas of Cork city have been advised to take precautionary measures to protect their premises from flooding after a warning was issued on Tuesday about what was termed ‘very high astronomical spring tides’ scheduled to last from Wednesday morning until Thursday morning.

According to a statement from Cork City Council, flooding is ‘highly likely’ in low lying areas of the city and properties in a number of streets might be impacted by the tidal conditions.

Streets ‘highly likely’ to be affected by the flooding include Morrison’s Quay, Fr. Mathew Quay, Fr. Mathew Street, Union Quay, Trinity Bridge, South Terrace, Rutland Street, Sawmill Street, Crosses Green, Sharman Crawford Street, Wandesford Quay and the South Mall. The warning from City Council suggested that the southern side of the South Mall was particularly at risk.

The City Council warning also suggested that road flooding was ‘likely’ to occur on Wednesday morning on Kyrls Quay, Lavitts Quay, Lapps Quay, Proby’s Quay, French’s Quay and Sullivan’s Quay.

The City Council will continue to monitor the situation and further advice will be issued if the situation changes. Regular updates will be posted to the City Council’s X (@corkcitycouncil) account as well as the City Council’s Public Alert System (MapAlerter).

While flooding is anticipated, road closures are not being envisaged. Motorists are being advised to drive with extra care and attention on Wednesday morning between 7am and approximately 8am. It is likely that many of the roads listed will have surface water on them. Motorists are also advised to please avoid driving on flooded streets as waves and wash generated by moving vehicles cancause flooding to properties adjacent to the flooded road.

Motorists are advised to take alternative routes along unflooded streets instead and are also warned against parking in any of the areas listed overnight.