Severe Weather Alerts for Ireland: Prepare for Rain and Travel Challenges

Updated on: October 15, 2024 12:48 pm GMT

Weather alerts are ringing across Ireland as Met Éireann issues multiple warnings for heavy rain and strong winds. With conditions likely to lead to flooding, travel disruptions, and fallen tree branches, residents in affected counties are advised to prepare for a challenging day ahead.

Weather Warnings in Effect

As the weekend draws to a close, anticipation grows for a significant weather event sweeping through Ireland. Met Éireann has extended its Status Orange rain warning to five counties, along with issuing Status Yellow warnings for several others. These alerts are in response to forecasts predicting persistent heavy rain along with strong gusty winds throughout Sunday.

• Status Orange warnings are in effect for:
• Cork
• Waterford
• Wexford
• Carlow
• Kilkenny
• Status Yellow warnings cover the entire Munster region alongside parts of Leinster.

Met Éireann describes the conditions on Sunday as “dull and wet,” with rain starting early in the day and becoming heavier as the afternoon progresses. Temperatures across the country will range from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius, with the heaviest rainfall expected in southern and southeastern regions.

Travel Advisory from RSA

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is urging drivers and other road users to exercise heightened caution during these conditions.

• Drivers should:
• Reduce speed and maintain increased breaking distances.
• Be prepared for flooded roads and consider alternate routes.
• Stay alert for debris and other vehicles that could be disoriented by the weather.
• Pedestrians are advised to:
• Walk on the right side facing traffic when sidewalks are unavailable.
• Cyclists should wear high-visibility clothing and ensure their bikes have functional front and rear lights.

With strong winds expected, the possibility of objects being blown onto roadways presents another danger for motorists.

Rain Forecast and Expected Impact

Along with ongoing rain, localized flooding is a major concern. The heavy rainfall is expected to lead to difficulties on the roads, which can result in significant delays and hazardous driving conditions. In addition to flooding, fallen branches and potential power outages may disrupt services across the affected areas.

Looking Ahead

Following this weekend’s rain, conditions are expected to improve. By Monday, forecasts suggest a shift to mostly cloudy weather with intermittent rain. The weather is predicted to become dry and clearer across much of the country later in the week, with temperatures likely ranging from 13 to 16 degrees Celsius.

while the coming days may bring challenging weather, those affected can prepare accordingly. For more updates, consider checking the Irish Independent for the latest reports and forecasts.

Safety is the most important thing. Make sure you know what’s happening around you, stay safe, and remember that bad weather can be very serious.