Storm Chandra: Nationwide Yellow Warning Remains in Place Until 23:00 Tonight

Motorists travelling outside Cork are advised to exercise caution this evening as a Status Yellow wind warning for all of Ireland remains in effect until 23:00 tonight, with flooding risks expected to persist into Wednesday and Thursday.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne attended a meeting of the National Emergency Co-ordination Group this afternoon to monitor the Government's ongoing response to Storm Chandra. The storm has caused significant flooding and travel disruptions, particularly across the South and East of the country.

Minister Browne said:

"While the weather warnings were only at Yellow Level, the impacts in some areas are severe given the level of water saturation in the ground prior to the storm. I would advise everyone to check Local Authorities' websites and social media channels for information on road closures, flooding updates, and community alerts. In particular, I would advise drivers to heed signage about flooded roads. Do not drive through floodwater. Turn back and use another route where a road is closed or flooded."

The M50 has fully reopened following earlier closures, though congestion and disruption should continue to be expected across parts of the motorway network.

A Status Yellow rain warning also remains in place for Carlow, Kilkenny, Louth, Wexford, Wicklow, and Waterford until 23:00 tonight.

ESB crews are working to restore power to affected homes and businesses, while the Department of Social Protection has confirmed that the Emergency Response Payment is now available for those whose properties have been directly affected by the storm.

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