Status yellow rain and wind warnings to bring challenging conditions across Cork

Cork County Council has said urged the public to 'say informed and plan ahead' after Met Éireann issued a status yellow rain warning for Cork, which is set to come effect from 9pm tonight until 9am on Tuesday morning. 

The national forecaster has also issued a status yellow wind warning, valid from 3am until 9am on Tuesday morning. 

Met Éireann has warned that heavy rain falling on already saturated ground will have the potential to cause localised flooding, difficult travel conditions, and impact on planned outdoor events.

There will be strong and gusty southerly winds with gales possible near coasts on Tuesday morning, with an increased flood risk in coastal areas due to coincidence with very high spring tides, and the possible displacement of debris and loose objects. 

Cork County Council has said that following a week of heavy and persistent, many rivers across Cork are approaching bank full conditions. 

"Furthermore, soils are waterlogged thereby increasing the likelihood of rainfall runoff. Additional rainfall that is forecast for the coming days is likely to result in river flooding," said a spokesperson.

"Also, a period of high astronomical tides will coincide with high storm surge and onshore winds increasing coastal flood risk in the days ahead. Coastal flooding is likely, particularly during high tide times and in exposed low-lying areas"

Cork County Council has advised that high tides may prevent river water from discharging to the sea, potentially causing water to back up within river channels and significantly increasing the risk of upstream flooding along low-lying areas.

Stay informed & plan ahead

• Monitor Met Éireann forecasts over the next 24 hours as conditions may change quickly. 

Visit https://www.met.ie/ for the most up to date information. Information is also available across the Met Éireann app, social media platforms (@meteireann) and other news media sources.

• Check Cork County Council's website and social media channels for information on road closures, flooding updates, and community alerts.

• Allow for disruption during Tuesday morning commute.

• Plan extra travel time and reduce speed.

• Expect surface water, debris and poor visibility on Tuesday morning.

• Check in with neighbours, older people or anyone who may need assistance in case conditions worsen.

Be aware of elevated flood risk and high winds

• Take care on exposed roads and bridges.

• Watch for fallen branches and debris.

• ESB Networks is highlighting the dangers posed by fallen live wires and is advising the public and the emergency services to stay away from these fallen cables and to report such cases to it immediately.

ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999. The public can monitor www.powercheck.ie in regards to power restoration times.

• Stay back from riverbanks, streams and canals – water levels may rise quickly.

• Keep children and pets away from waterways and flooded areas.

• Do not drive through floodwater – turn back and use another route.

• Coastal areas may experience wave overtopping, storm surge, and tidal flooding, especially in low-lying locations.

• Keep away from coastal edges, harbours, piers and low-lying promenades during high tide.

• The Irish Coast Guard advice remains: 'Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry.