Cork County Council is on high alert as a Status Orange Rainfall Warning is in effect for Cork from 8.00am to 6.00pm on Sunday, September 29th. The warning comes as Met Éireann predicts widespread persistent rain, with some intense downpours expected throughout the day. The council’s Severe Weather Assessment Team has convened to monitor the situation closely, anticipating potential impacts such as flooding, dangerous driving conditions, and travel disruptions. Fallen branches and trees are also a concern.
Impact and Response
The council’s crews have inspected key high-risk areas and have put in place pumping arrangements where necessary. As a precautionary measure, sandbags are being deployed to key risk areas on a prioritized basis. The council is urging the public to exercise caution as driving conditions may be dangerous, with spot flooding and surface debris possible. The council also warns that trees are currently in full leaf, increasing the risk of fallen branches. Motorists are advised to avoid driving through flowing or standing water and to exercise extreme caution during the heavy rain. The council also emphasizes the importance of road safety, urging motorists to be mindful of cyclists, pedestrians, and other vulnerable road users.
Disruptions and Precautions
The strong and gusty winds forecast alongside the heavy rain have prompted the closure of several local attractions. The Dursey Cable Car will not be operational on Sunday due to the weather conditions. Fota Wildlife Park has also announced its closure on Sunday, citing safety concerns for visitors, animals, and staff.
Weather and Safety Updates
The public is urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions. Weather updates are available on the Met Éireann website at www.met.ie. Cork County Council will continue to provide updates on their website, www.corkcoco.ie, and across their social media channels @Corkcoco.
The council has also provided contact information for reporting issues. In the event of flooding, fallen trees, or road damage, the public can report it to the Council's Emergency Out of Hours number: (021) 4800048. For disruptions to power supply, contact ESB Networks at 1800 372 999. Fallen or grounded wires should be avoided, and the public is advised to contact ESB for assistance with identifying fallen wires. In the event of a disruption to water supply, please contact Uisce Éireann at 1800 278 278. And in any emergency, call 999 or 112 and request the Fire Service, Ambulance Service, Gardaí, or Irish Coastguard as appropriate.
A Rainy Sunday in Cork
As the orange weather warning takes effect, the county braces for a challenging day. With the possibility of flooding, hazardous driving conditions, and power outages, Cork County Council is emphasizing the importance of vigilance and safety measures. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, residents can navigate the storm and ensure their well-being. The council's efforts to prepare for the worst of the storm demonstrate a commitment to the safety of the community, while the closures of local attractions reflect a precautionary approach to managing the challenging weather conditions.
The storm is expected to pass by 8pm on Sunday, leaving a mix of cloudy skies and showers for the remainder of the week. While the rain is expected to be heaviest on Sunday, it will be a challenging few days for Cork County as it navigates the stormy conditions.
