ALERT: Met Éireann extends status orange weather warning to Waterford

Met Eireann is warning of "very heavy and persistent" rain across Waterford this weekend associated with Hurricane Kirk which is sweeping across the Atlantic Ocean.

A status yellow rain warning, which was issued on Thursday, has now been increased to status orange with the national forecaster advising motorists and other road users that there is a possibility of travel disruption due to the heavy rainfall and possible flooding.

"Very heavy and persistent rain, with highest accumulations in mountainous areas," states the warning which adds that potential impacts include "river and coastal flooding, dangerous travelling conditions and travel disruption."

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According to Met Éireann, the status orange rain warning for Waterford is due to come into effect at 12 midday on Saturday and it will remain valid until midnight.

Waterford City and County Council's severe weather management team attended a virtual Met Éireann Technical Briefing on Friday morning and has advised that ground crews will be on standby to deal with issues as they arise, such as localised flooding, blocked drains, gulley overflows, etc.

The local authority is advising members of the public to exercise caution as driving conditions may be hazardous, with further surface water expected and potential for coastal flooding.

Gabriel Hynes, Senior Engineer with Waterford City and County Council, is advising the public to exercise caution for the duration of the Met Éireann weather warning.

"There is potential for localised and surface flooding, fallen branches and debris on the roads.  Motorists should avoid driving through flowing or standing water as the depth of the water can be deceptive.  Motorist should also be particularly conscious of vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists,” he said.

With coastal levels elevated, onshore winds and potential for wave overtopping, the Irish Coast Guard is appealing to people to 'Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry' and 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.

Separate status orange rain warnings have been issued for counties Cork and Kerry while status yellow warnings have been issued for several other countries - Limerick, Clare, Galway and Mayo.