Cork County Council Warns Residents Ahead of Orange Weather Alert

Cork County Council has mobilised crews and activated emergency protocols as Met Éireann prepares to issue a Status Orange rain warning for the county tomorrow evening, with concerns over localised flooding and hazardous driving conditions.

The Status Orange rain warning will take effect at 9pm on Saturday, 18th October, remaining in place until 5am on Sunday morning. Heavy rain and possibly thundery downpours are expected to bring localised flooding, poor visibility and very difficult driving conditions across the county. Met Éireann has also warned of possible river flooding, particularly in mountainous areas.

A Status Yellow rain warning will precede the orange alert, coming into effect at 5pm on Saturday.

Cork County Council's Severe Weather Assessment Team convened this evening to coordinate the response. Crews were deployed on Friday afternoon to inspect known risk locations across the county and will continue monitoring throughout the weekend. Pumping arrangements have been put in place at problem locations identified by the council.

The council is urging motorists to exercise extreme caution during the warning period. Drivers should avoid travelling through flowing or standing water and remain vigilant during heavy rain. Road users are also asked to be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians who will face particularly challenging conditions.

Members of the public should report flooding and road damage to the council's Emergency Out of Hours number at 021 4800048. In emergencies, dial 999 or 112 to request the Fire Service, Ambulance Service, Gardaí or Irish Coastguard as appropriate. Disruptions to water supply should be reported to Uisce Éireann at 1800 278 278.

Cork County Council has confirmed it will continue monitoring the situation as the weather system approaches.