13 Mar 2024 | 01:54 AM UTC
Ireland: Adverse weather forecast across southern regions through at least March 14
Severe weather forecast across southern Ireland through March 14. Transport, business, and utility disruptions possible.
Heavy rainfall is forecast across southern Ireland through at least March 14. As of early March 13, Met Eireann has issued orange (the middle level on a three-tier scale) heavy rainfall warnings for Cork and Kerry counties and yellow heavy rainfall warnings for Waterford County March 13-14. Small craft warnings are in place across the entire coast of Ireland over the same period. Localized flooding, poor visibility, and difficult travel conditions are likely during the warning period. Authorities will probably issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours and days.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Out of an abundance of caution, confirm all transport reservations before travel in the affected area. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
