Cork is currently subject to a Met Éireann Status Red wind warning from 21:00 to 23:59 on Wednesday 19th August. Between 9pm and midnight Storm Ellen will produce a core of very severe and destructive winds. A Status Orange wind warning remains in effect for Munster from 21:00 Wednesday 19th to 06:00 Thursday 20th August. Storm Ellen will track over Ireland overnight bringing severe and damaging winds. Heavy rainfall and storm surge will result in some flooding.
Met Éireann have also issued a Status Red Marine gale warning. Gale to storm force winds, southeast veering southwest, this evening and tonight on all Irish coastal waters and on the Irish Sea. Winds will reach violent storm force 11 for a time on coasts.
In response to this weather warning, Cork County Council’s Severe Weather Assessment Team has convened again this evening, following a meeting of the Council’s Crisis Management Team and a further NDFEM Met Éireann weather briefing.
Cork County Council expects the impact from Storm Ellen to include fallen trees and possible structural damage from high winds. Due to the combination of storm surge, spring tides and onshore winds, there is a potential risk of coastal flooding. There is a risk also of some inland and river flooding with some potentially heavy, thundery downpours. Cork County Council response crews and contractors remain on standby.
Members of the public are advised to stay high, stay dry and stay away from the coast, rivers and lakes. Those camping or in caravans are asked to seek alternative accommodation indoors, as temporary structures are particularly at risk.
Cork County Council advises road users to be aware of the danger posed by high winds. Driving conditions may be hazardous with surface flooding possible. Motorists are reminded to take additional care and be conscious of cyclists and pedestrians.
For assistance with issues such as fallen trees, flooding and road damage, contact Cork County Council’s Emergency Out of Hours Number (021) 4800048, which will continue to be available throughout the day tomorrow.
The strong winds may give rise to localised power outages. In the event of a disruption to power supply, please contact ESB Networks at 1850 372999. In the event of a disruption to water supply, please contact Irish Water at 1850 278278. In the event of an emergency call 999 or 112 and request the Fire Service, Ambulance Service, Gardaí or Irish Coastguard as appropriate.
Cork County Council’s Severe Weather Assessment will meet again tomorrow morning and further updates will issue when available. Further weather warnings are likely tomorrow.
Updates will be provided on Cork County Council’s website www.corkcoco.ie and also on our social media channels @Corkcoco
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