RSA Warns Cork Drivers as Orange Rain Warning Issued Ahead of Sunday Flooding Risk

The Road Safety Authority has urged road users to exercise extra caution as Met Éireann issues Orange and Yellow rain warnings across the southern region, with Cork facing significant rainfall and flooding risk on Sunday.

An Orange Rain warning will be in effect for Cork and Kerry from 3am to 6pm on Sunday, with Met Éireann forecasting significant rainfall accumulations, particularly on high ground. The highest totals are expected in Kerry and West Cork, which may lead to significant river and surface water flooding, hazardous travelling conditions and poor visibility.

Yellow Rain warnings are also in place for Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Donegal and Connacht from 6pm tonight (Saturday) to midnight Sunday. A separate Yellow warning covers Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford from midnight Sunday to 3am Monday.

The warnings come as high river levels and saturated ground increase flood risk across the region. Spells of heavy rain could lead to river and surface flooding, creating difficult travelling conditions with poor visibility.

The RSA is recommending that road users in areas affected by the Orange warning check local traffic and weather conditions before setting out on a journey.

Drivers are being advised to slow down and allow greater braking distance in wet conditions, particularly on high-speed roads such as dual carriageways and motorways where aquaplaning poses an increased danger. Motorists should take special care when driving behind goods vehicles, which generate considerable spray that reduces visibility.

If the road ahead is flooded, drivers should choose another route rather than attempting to drive through. The RSA warns that flooded roads appearing shallow could be deeper than expected, with verges that may have subsided and fallen trees or branches that may not be visible.

Road users should always follow recommended routes and obey signs closing roads to traffic put in place by local councils or An Garda Síochána. After going through water, drivers should travel slowly with their foot on the brake pedal for a short distance to help dry the brakes. Dipped headlights should be used at all times.

Pedestrians are advised to walk on the right-hand side of the road facing traffic where there are no footpaths. Cyclists should ensure they and their bikes are visible by using front and rear lights (white at the front, red at the back) and wearing high-visibility clothing.

All road users are encouraged to wear bright clothing and consider high-visibility material, as visibility and light are reduced in poor weather conditions.

For severe weather driving tips, visit the RSA website or check their Facebook and Twitter pages. The RSA has also created severe weather warning videos in collaboration with Teresa Mannion, along with specific advice for driving on wet roads.

For weather updates, visit Met Éireann's website at www.met.ie.