Weather warnings extended in Waterford as Storm Bram to bring 'strong and destructive' winds

Met Éireann has extended a Status Orange Wind warning for Waterford as Storm Bram continues to bring strong and damaging southerly winds.

The Status Orange Wind warning for Waterford will be in effect until 4pm, followed by a Status Yellow Wind warning for all of Ireland until 9pm this evening.

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With high tides passed, flood defence barriers, which were activated in Waterford city and Passage East yesterday evening, mitigated against any serious flooding issues. Car parks in Dungarvan and the Prom in Tramore were also closed yesterday evening so there was no damage to parked cars, as parking overnight was not permitted.

While the risk of localised and spot flooding has subsided, Storm Bram is expected to bring further strong to gale force winds to the country this afternoon, with impacts including difficult travelling conditions, fallen trees and debris and disruption and cancellations to transport services and events.

Waterford City and County Council’s severe weather assessment team convened this morning and is advising that the public continues to exercise caution while the orange and yellow weather warnings remain in place until 9pm this evening.

Gabriel Hynes, A/Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council said,

“While the flooding risks have subsided considerably, Storm Bram will bring strong and destructive southerly gusts this afternoon.

“We would advise the public to continue to take care when travelling, avoid unnecessary journeys and if you must travel slow down, increase stopping distances, and be mindful of vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.

“There may be trees and branches down, along with flying debris and, because of the time of year, Christmas decorations. These obstacles can make your journey extremely hazardous, so please be aware of unexpected debris on the roads.”

ESB Networks is highlighting the dangers posed by fallen live wires and is advising the public and the emergency services to stay away from these fallen cables and to report such cases immediately. ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999.

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With a Status Red Marine warning in place until 3pm and winds strongest in coastal areas, the public is advised to stay away from coastal areas and adhere the Irish Coast Guards advice to “Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry”.

Waterford City and County Council’s ground crews and emergency services crews are deployed throughout the county to deal with issues as they arise.

Members of the public can contact Waterford City and County Council’s Customer Services Desks on 0818 10 20 20 during normal office hours after which calls will be transferred to the Council’s emergency services number.

To keep up date on Storm Bram updates visit https://waterfordcouncil.ie/news/

Please note the following emergency contact numbers below:

• Emergency 999/112
• Uisce Éireann 1800 278 278
• ESB Networks 1800 372 999
• Gas Networks Ireland 1800 205 050

Key public safety messages:

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• Orange warnings: the public is advised to limit travel to essential only in areas where an orange level warning is in place. Essential services operators will continue to operate services subject to advice from Met Éireann on prevailing local conditions.
• The forecasted winds have the capacity to bring severe, destructive and damaging winds which will constitute a risk to life and property.
• High seas: the public is advised to stay away from coastal areas during this period. The Irish Coast Guard is appealing to people to “Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry”.
• There is a potential for tidal flooding in coastal areas. In addition to this, Storm Bram may also bring localised heavy showers, which in turn may lead to localised flooding.
• The electricity network is expected to be severely impacted, the public are advised to prepare for the arrival of the storm including ensuring their mobile phone is fully charged to enable communication.
• Monitor Met Éireann forecasts and/or visit https://www.met.ie/ for the most up to date information. Information is available across social media platforms and other news media sources.
• ESB Networks is highlighting the dangers posed by fallen live wires and is advising the public and the emergency services to stay away from these fallen cables and to report such cases to it immediately. ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999. The public can monitor www.PowerCheck.ie in regards to power restoration times.
• Uisce Éireann customers can check the website and social media channels for updates and to get in touch with any issues or concerns via their 24/7 customer care centre at 1800 278 278. The public can also sign up online to our free text alert system to get regular updates about their local supplies – see www.water.ie