Storm Bram: Status Orange Wind Warning Extended for Cork

Met Éireann has extended the Status Orange wind warning for nine counties including Cork by one hour, with the alert now remaining in place until 16:00 this afternoon.

The warning, which was updated at 11:41 this morning, affects Carlow, Cork, Kerry, Kilkenny, Limerick, Tipperary, Waterford, Wexford and Wicklow.

Storm Bram is bringing very strong to gale force southerly winds veering southwesterly, with severe gusts continuing to cause difficult travel conditions across the affected counties.

Impacts include flooding of low-lying coastal areas, especially during high tide, wave overtopping, displaced debris and loose objects, disruption to outdoor events, and power outages.

Two additional Status Orange wind warnings remain in effect for other parts of the country, with a second warning covering 16 counties including Dublin, Kildare and Connacht until 21:00, and a third warning for Donegal from 14:00 to 21:00.

Cork County Council has crews deployed at known flooding hotspots across the county, with pumps positioned and sandbags available at several locations. After a week of persistent rain, many rivers are approaching bank full conditions, with heavy rain falling on already saturated ground.

The strongest winds are forecast along the coast, with severe gusts creating hazardous conditions on exposed roads and bridges. Motorists are advised to reduce speed, allow extra travel time and avoid driving through floodwater.

Residents should stay back from riverbanks, streams and canals, as water levels may rise quickly. Coastal areas face particular risks from wave overtopping, storm surge and tidal flooding, especially in low-lying locations during high tide.

The Irish Coast Guard advice remains: "Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry."

Issues such as fallen trees, flooding and road damage should be reported to Cork County Council's emergency number on 021 4800048. ESB Networks warns the public to stay away from fallen live wires and report them to ESB Emergency Services at 1800 372 999. Power restoration updates are available at www.PowerCheck.ie.

Residents are advised to monitor Met Éireann forecasts closely at www.met.ie, as conditions may change quickly.