Weekend Traffic & Weather Wrap

• Cork experienced significant traffic disruption and challenging weather conditions over the weekend, with multiple collisions on major routes, Coast Guard rescues, and widespread thundery showers forecast to continue into Monday.

Friday Evening Gridlock

Friday 29th August saw the weekend begin with widespread traffic incidents across the county. A multi-vehicle collision on the N40 eastbound created major delays during rush hour, whilst a separate crash in the Jack Lynch Tunnel northbound compounded congestion for commuters heading home.

Additional incidents on the N20 near Buttevant, in Glounthaune, and on the Kinsale Road kept emergency services busy throughout the evening. The M8 experienced further disruption with debris reported on the southbound carriageway and a vehicle fire on the northbound side, leaving many Friday evening journeys considerably delayed.

Saturday's Continued Disruption

Saturday 30th August brought little respite for Cork motorists. A spillage and debris on the N40 caused delays in both directions, whilst collisions were reported across the county network. The N71 Bandon Road, Kinsale Road Roundabout, and N22 Carrigrohane Straight all saw incidents, with a truck becoming stuck in the city centre briefly blocking traffic and testing the patience of shoppers and visitors alike.

Coast Guard Rescue Operation

Saturday evening saw the Irish Coast Guard spring into action at Fort Carlisle after kite surfers got into difficulty in challenging conditions. Crews successfully brought those in need to safety, a reminder of the dangers posed by the weekend's strong winds and rough seas along Cork's coastline.

Sunday's Unsettled Conditions

Sunday 31st August has started more quietly on the roads, with ferry crossings and Cork Airport operations running to schedule despite a little unsettled conditions. The day brings breezy and at times windy conditions, with widespread showers, some heavy and thundery.

Temperatures will reach between 14 and 18°C, with fresh to strong southwesterly winds, strongest along coasts but moderating inland later. These conditions may lead to surface water and reduced visibility for drivers, particularly on exposed routes.

Monday Morning Commute Alert

Monday will continue the unsettled pattern with sunny spells and widespread showers, some heavy, though these will ease through the evening and become mostly confined to western areas. Temperatures of 15 to 18°C are expected, with moderate to fresh westerly winds easing through the evening.

Motorists should allow extra time for the Monday morning commute as scattered showers may reduce visibility, though conditions will improve into the evening.

Week Ahead Outlook

The unsettled weather looks set to continue through the week. Heavy rain is possible on Tuesday and again on Friday, whilst Wednesday offers the best prospects with drier conditions and bright spells. Fresh winds will persist at times, particularly near coastal areas, so those planning outdoor activities would be wise to keep a close eye on forecasts.

With schools returning this week across Cork, the combination of increased traffic volumes and challenging weather conditions means extra caution will be needed on all routes.