Cork County Council Warns of Elevated Flooding Risk as Rain and Wind Warnings Issued

Cork County Council has issued a warning about elevated flooding risk across the county, as Met Éireann Status Yellow Rain and Wind Warnings come into effect over the coming days.

The Council has advised residents to prepare for potential flooding, with waterlogged soils, high tides and persistent rainfall creating heightened risk conditions throughout Cork.

Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow Rain Warning valid from 21:00 on Monday, 8 December to 09:00 on Tuesday, 9 December. A Status Yellow Wind Warning follows from 03:00 to 21:00 on Tuesday.

River and Coastal Flooding Expected

After a week of continuous rain, many rivers across Cork are approaching bank full conditions. Soils are now waterlogged, increasing the likelihood of rainfall runoff. The additional rainfall forecast for the coming days is likely to result in river flooding.

Cork County Council has warned that a period of high astronomical tides will coincide with high storm surge and onshore winds, significantly increasing coastal flood risk. Coastal flooding is likely, particularly during high tide times and in exposed low-lying areas.

High Tides May Cause Upstream Flooding

The Council has specifically 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 and Plan Ahead

Cork County Council advises residents to monitor Met Éireann forecasts over the next 24 hours, as conditions may change quickly. Information is available at www.met.ie, through the Met Éireann app, and on social media at @meteireann.

The Council's website and social media channels will provide updates on road closures, flooding and community alerts. Commuters should allow for disruption during Tuesday morning's rush hour and plan extra travel time.

Surface water, debris and poor visibility are expected on Tuesday morning. Drivers are advised to reduce speed accordingly.

Residents are encouraged to check in with neighbours, older people or anyone who may need assistance in case conditions worsen.

Flood Risk and Wind Safety

The Council advises residents to take care on exposed roads and bridges, and watch for fallen branches and debris. ESB Networks is highlighting the dangers posed by fallen live wires and advises the public and emergency services to stay away from fallen cables. ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999. Power restoration updates are available at www.powercheck.ie.

The public should stay back from riverbanks, streams and canals, as water levels may rise quickly. Children and pets should be kept away from waterways and flooded areas.

Motorists are reminded not to drive through floodwater and to turn back and use another route if necessary.

Coastal areas may experience wave overtopping, storm surge and tidal flooding, especially in low-lying locations. The public should 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."