Weather warnings for 18 counties as Met Éireann warns of flood risk

Ottoline Spearman

Weather warnings are in place for 18 counties on Wednesday as the Government's emergency planners have warned that there is a risk of flooding "across the country".

A spell of heavy rainfall overnight from Tuesday and throughout Wednesday will be falling on already saturated ground and rivers close to bursting banks.

A yellow rain warning is in force in all 12 Leinster counties, as well as Cavan, Monaghan, Cork, Tipperary, and Waterford.

This is due to expire at 11pm on Wednesday.

The forecasting agency said there is a risk of flooding, poor visibility, and difficult travelling conditions in these areas, which are also experiencing high river levels.

Wexford, Wicklow, Meath, Louth, and Dublin will also be under a yellow warning for wind, with Met Éireann also cautioning against wave overtopping amid high tides.

This is in place until 1pm on Wednesday.

The double warning applies to areas in the east of the country which have been severely affected by flooding in recent weeks.

A third yellow warning for rain applies to Donegal between 2am and 2pm on Wednesday, with Met Éireann warning that falls of sleet and snow are possible.

The North is also under a yellow rain and snow warning, with the UK's Met Office warning of outbreaks of rain, hill snow and strong winds, which may bring some disruption to travel.

This warning is in place from 4am to 8pm on Wednesday.