‘Flooding risk’ as Met Éireann issues three weather warnings

Heavy rainfall is expected to sweep across the country in the next 24 hours as Met Éireann issues three weather warnings.

The rainfall yellow alerts have been issued for 12 counties and warn of a “risk of flooding”.

Between 30 and 50mm of rain is forecast counties Cork and Kerry with the heaviest rainfall expected from noon on Friday to midnight. South and west Cork, and south and west Kerry are expected to have the highest risk of flooding.

Up to 40mm of rain is expected to fall in counties Wicklow, Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Galway, Mayo, Clare, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford. Mountainous areas are expected to have heavier downpours.

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There is an ongoing risk of flooding and surface water in all counties. The weather alerts will remain in place until Saturday.

On Saturday morning the rain will continue over Leinster and Ulster with further risks of flooding. Munster and Connacht are expected to be drier and sunnier. Temperatures will reach up to 10 degrees during the day.

Meanwhile, Government spend on flood defences was €53 million below budget between 2011 and 2017, figures from the Office of Public show.

Financial allocations under capital plans for the period outlined a €45 million per annum allocation towards flood defences. However a breakdown of the spend over the seven year period shows €262 million out of a possible €315 million was spent.

The figures came to light following a parliamentary question by Fianna Fáil spokesman on flooding Eugene Murphy.

Separately, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has asked road users to be extra cautious during the bad weather.

The authority reminded drivers to allow extra space between their vehicles and other vulnerable road users such a cyclists.

“If the road ahead is flooded choose another route, do not attempt to drive through it. Flooded roads that appear shallow could be deeper than you think,” they said.

The RSA also asked pedestrians and cyclists to wear reflective clothing.

Sunday is forecast to be wet, windy and unsettled.

Next week the forecast is for much colder weather with snow and sleet expected on Monday and Tuesday across the north and west.

Thunder is expected in all areas. Temperatures will also be notably cooler too with highs of only 3 to 6 degrees. It will feel colder with an added wind chill effect.