Met Éireann has issued an orange warning for three counties, Dublin, Wicklow, and Wexford, for tomorrow, with potential flooding in Leinster and Munster. The weather service predicts heavy rain, which could lead to significant flooding, especially in areas with already saturated ground. The warning will be in effect from 2 pm on Friday until 11 am on Saturday, with a focus on high ground and exposed areas. The National Directorate for Fire & Emergency Management (NDFEM) has convened a meeting to prepare for the storm, urging local authorities and the public to take necessary precautions.
In addition to the orange warning, Met Éireann has also issued status yellow rain and wind warnings for several other counties. These warnings are in place from Friday into Saturday, with heavy and persistent rain expected in Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, and Waterford, leading to potential flooding and difficult travel conditions. Another status yellow rain warning covers Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Louth, Meath, Wexford, and Wicklow, with the same potential for flooding and travel disruptions.
Furthermore, a status yellow wind warning is active for Dublin, Louth, Wexford, and Wicklow, starting at noon on Friday and lasting until 4 am on Saturday. Strong and gusty northeasterly winds are expected to make travel conditions hazardous and may cause wind-related debris. NDFEM's national director, Keith Leonard, has advised the public to be cautious and avoid coastal areas, open riverbanks, and canal paths due to potential water hazards.
Motorists are also urged to slow down, increase stopping distances, and watch for surface water and debris. If roads are flooded, they should not be entered, and alternative routes should be taken. Met Éireann's forecast predicts a wet and windy Friday with widespread rain and fresh to strong northeasterly winds, particularly along eastern-facing coasts. The rain is expected to be heavy in the south and east, with potential flooding, while Ulster and north Connacht will experience some brighter spells.
Saturday will likely bring the driest and brightest weather in northern areas, with cloud and patchy rain or drizzle in other regions. These showers will become more isolated later in the day. Fresh to strong northeasterly winds will ease as the day progresses. Sunday is expected to be mainly dry, with a mix of cloud and sunny spells, and temperatures ranging from seven to 11 degrees.
