Met Éireann: Yellow Rain Warning & Flood Risk – Irish Times

Ireland Braces for Weekend of Heavy Rain and Flood Risk

A widespread yellow rain warning is in effect across Ireland and parts of the United Kingdom this weekend, prompting concerns about potential flooding and hazardous travel conditions. National forecasters are advising residents to prepare for important rainfall beginning Saturday evening and continuing through Monday.

The deteriorating weather conditions come just days after Storm Bram impacted the region, leaving thousands without power and causing substantial coastal flooding. This latest system poses a renewed threat, particularly given already saturated ground and high river levels.

Extensive Rain Warnings Issued

According to Met Éireann, the initial yellow rain warning will cover Clare, cork, Kerry, Limerick, Donegal, and Connacht, taking effect at 6 p.m. Saturday and remaining in place until midnight on Monday. A second yellow warning will be implemented for tipperary, waterford, and Wexford from midnight Sunday until 3 a.m. Monday.

“Flood risk is increased due to high river levels and saturated ground,” a senior official stated. The likely impacts include both river and surface water flooding,and also challenging driving conditions and reduced visibility.

Across the Irish Sea,the UK Met Office has issued a corresponding yellow rain warning for Antrim,Armagh,Down,Fermanagh,Tyrone,and Derry,valid from midnight Sunday to 6 a.m. Monday.

Did you know? – Yellow warnings are issued when weather coudl disrupt daily routines and require caution. They are the lowest level of weather warning, but still demand preparedness.

Gale Warning in Effect for Coastal Areas

In addition to the rain warnings, a status yellow gale warning has been issued for coastal regions stretching from Fair Head to Carlingford Lough to Carnsore Point, and encompassing the Irish Sea.This warning will be active from midday Saturday until 4 p.m.Sunday.

Elsewhere in Ireland, the weekend is expected to be generally wet and blustery, with widespread rainfall. sunday morning’s rain is forecast to clear westward and northwestward in the afternoon, giving way to drier conditions in the evening. However, the heaviest and most persistent rainfall will concentrate in Munster and south Leinster, where spot flooding is possible. Temperatures are expected to reach between 11 and 13 degrees Celsius, accompanied by fresh to strong southwesterly winds.

Pro tip: – Before traveling, check local traffic reports and road conditions. Avoid driving through flooded areas; turn around, don’t drown.

Looking Ahead to Next week

The rain is expected to gradually clear southeastward Sunday night, with scattered showers and clearer spells developing. However, lingering rainfall may persist in parts of the southeast. Overnight lows will range from 6 to 9 degrees Celsius.

The forecast for next week suggests that the rain may continue to affect the southeast, while drier and brighter conditions are anticipated elsewhere. Tuesday is predicted to be largely dry and bright, with isolated showers in western areas. Highest temperatures will be between 6 and 9 degrees Celsius, according to Met Éireann.

The recent series of storms underscores the increasing vulnerability of the region to extreme weather events, prompting calls for enhanced infrastructure and preparedness measures.

Reader question: – Have you experienced increased extreme weather events in your area? What steps are you taking to prepare?

Why: A series of weather systems, including Storm Bram and the current rainfall, are impacting Ireland and parts of the UK, leading to a heightened risk of flooding and hazardous conditions. Climate change is believed to be increasing the frequency and intensity of these events.
Who: The warnings affect residents and travelers across Ireland and parts of the United Kingdom, specifically counties Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Donegal, Connacht, Tipperary, Waterford, Wexford, Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone, and Derry.