Essential Driving Safety Tips for Status Yellow Rainfall Warnings

Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow rainfall warning for Cork, taking effect at 09:00 tomorrow (Friday, 14 November 2025) and remaining in place until 09:00 on Saturday, 15 November 2025. Cork drivers should prepare for rapidly changing conditions, from aquaplaning on the N40 to reduced visibility on regional routes across the county.

Understanding Tomorrow's Status Yellow Weather Warning

The warning means weather conditions may cause localised impacts across Cork and beyond. Heavy rain brings multiple hazards: strong winds, poor visibility, surface water, and localised flooding. Whether you're navigating the M8 or rural roads around the county, conditions can change quickly and catch even experienced drivers off guard.

Turn On Your Headlights, Not Just Daytime Running Lights

One of the most common mistakes during rainfall is relying on Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). These only illuminate the front of your vehicle, leaving your rear lights off. In heavy rain or grey daylight, cars using only DRLs become almost invisible from behind, significantly increasing collision risk.

Manually switch on your dipped headlights during heavy or persistent rain, mist, fog patches, dawn or dusk, overcast weather, or when spray from other vehicles reduces visibility. Don't trust automatic lighting systems to make the call for you.

The Hidden Danger of Aquaplaning

Aquaplaning occurs when a layer of water builds between your tyres and the road surface, removing steering and braking control. It's most likely at speeds above 80km/h, particularly on motorways, dual carriageways, and poorly drained regional roads where water pools near verges, bends, or dips.

If you feel your car aquaplaning, resist the urge to brake suddenly or steer sharply. Instead, ease off the accelerator smoothly, keep the steering wheel straight, and wait for your tyres to regain traction. Once you have control again, slow to a safer speed for the conditions.

Stopping Distance Doubles in Wet Conditions

In wet weather, your stopping distance can double compared to dry conditions. On flooded or saturated surfaces, it increases even further. Increase your following distance from the usual two-second rule to four seconds or more, and brake earlier and more gently to avoid skidding.

Even modern vehicles with ABS need extra road distance. Avoid harsh braking in standing water, and slow down well before roundabouts, bends, and when passing cyclists.

Check Your Tyres Before the Rain Arrives

Tyres must legally have at least 1.6mm tread depth, but safety experts recommend 3mm during winter or wet months. Under-inflated tyres reduce control and increase fuel consumption, while over-inflated tyres can reduce road contact in wet conditions.

Before long journeys and after striking potholes, debris, or kerbs, check your tyres. Good tread depth helps clear water efficiently and reduces aquaplaning risk.

Dealing With Flooded Roads

Avoid driving through water unless you know the depth. Six inches of water can cause loss of control, while one foot can float a car. If water is flowing across the road, do not proceed. After driving through water, lightly press your brakes to restore friction.

Wind Hazards During Yellow Warnings

Status Yellow warnings often bring strong crosswinds, particularly on bridges, coastal roads, and open rural routes. Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and allow extra room around cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians who are more vulnerable to gusts.

General Safe Driving Practices

Reduce speed in all scenarios and plan extra travel time to avoid rushing. Keep both hands on the wheel, ensure washer fluid is topped up, and expect delays due to traffic or emergency works. Be prepared for sudden hazards like tree debris, surface water, or stranded vehicles.

Increase wiper speed and use demisters regularly to prevent fogging. Use air conditioning if needed, and avoid using high beams in heavy rain as the reflection reduces visibility.

Most importantly, keep a safe distance from vehicles in front and avoid unnecessary overtaking. A few extra minutes on your journey is always worth arriving safely.