Orange Rain Warning: RSA Urges Extreme Caution

The Road Safety Authority has urged drivers in southern counties to exercise extreme caution this weekend as Met Éireann issues orange and yellow weather warnings for heavy rain and thunderstorms across Cork, Kerry, Waterford and Wexford.

Cork faces the most severe conditions with an orange rain warning in effect from 9pm Saturday until 5am Sunday. The alert warns of heavy rain with possible thundery downpours that could trigger river flooding, particularly in mountainous areas, along with very difficult travelling conditions throughout the night.

Met Éireann has also issued yellow rain warnings for Cork and Kerry from 5pm Saturday to 5am Sunday, and for Waterford and Wexford from 8pm Saturday to 8am Sunday. These areas can expect spells of heavy rain with possible thundery downpours, leading to flash flooding, poor visibility and potential damage to power lines.

The RSA is advising road users in orange warning areas to check local traffic and weather conditions before starting any journey this weekend.

Drivers are being reminded to reduce speed and increase braking distances during wet conditions, especially on high-speed routes such as the M8 and N40 where aquaplaning poses significant danger. Motorists should exercise particular care when driving behind goods vehicles, which generate substantial spray that reduces visibility.

The authority has issued a stark warning about flooded roads: do not attempt to drive through standing water. Roads that appear shallow may be deeper than they look, with potentially collapsed verges and fallen trees or branches hidden beneath the surface.

After driving through water, motorists should drive slowly with light pressure on the brake pedal to help dry the brakes. Dipped headlights should be used at all times during poor weather conditions.

Pedestrians have been advised to walk on the right-hand side of the road facing traffic where footpaths are unavailable. Cyclists and motorcyclists should ensure they are visible with proper front and rear lights, white at the front and red at the back, and consider wearing high-visibility clothing.

The RSA emphasises that all road users should wear bright clothing with high-visibility material during poor weather when visibility and light are significantly reduced.

Road users are reminded to follow recommended routes and obey road closure signs placed by local councils or An Garda Síochána.

Further severe weather driving advice is available on the RSA website and their social media channels, including videos created in collaboration with RTÉ weather presenter Teresa Mannion. Weather updates can be found at www.met.ie.