A red weather warning remains in place in Cork City until 9 p.m. tonight when it will be downgraded to an orange weather warning.

During the red alert, people are urged to remain at home as the risk of severe winds remains.  Cork City Council’s Customer Service Unit will remain open for non emergency service requests until 9 p.m. this evening on 021 4924000.   After 9 p.m., requests can be put through to the out-of- hours number 021 4966512.

From 9 p.m. onwards tonight, any drivers, cyclists and pedestrians are being warned to exercise caution, should they travel, fallen trees, debris and surface water remain on many roads.

Much of this cannot be removed or cleaned up until tomorrow morning as during a red weather alert, Cork City Council crews can only undertake works if there was a risk to life.  Inspections of key locations where fallen trees have been reported will take place after 9 p.m. after the red warning has been lifted, and these locations will be made safe.

At least 20 fallen trees have been reported across the city and powerlines have also fallen. Cork City Fire Brigade and ESB crews have been busy responding to incidents across the city.

Works will commence in daylight to address any further issues.  Recovery and clean-up operations will continue over the coming days.

Earlier today, Cork City Council had to close a road at Kilcully due to dangerous powerlines.

High tide passed in Cork city centre this morning with flood waters flowing across South Mall from the riverside quays at Morrisons Island. Flood level peaked at 2.68 metres.

During the red alert, Cork City Council is advising the public:

• Stay at home. Don’t make any unnecessary journeys.
• If you must travel, take care when driving as conditions will be hazardous.
• Stay away from exposed quays, coasts, rivers and lakes.
• Stay away from any fallen electricity lines or trees. Watch out for fallen debris.
• Take measures to secure any loose outdoor items such as temporary structures, Christmas decorations, trampolines etc
• Householders and builders should secure all construction sites.
• Continue to monitor Met Eireann and Cork City Council social media and websites for updates

A number of road closures and traffic restrictions are necessary. Any restrictions will be eased as appropriate.

• In case of an emergency, please ring 999 or 112.
• Cork City Council’s Customer Service Unit (CSU) is operating until 9 p.m. tonight.  The CSU can be contacted on 021-4924000.  After 9 p.m., incidents of fallen trees and debris can be reported to the out-of-hours number on 021 4966512.
• The ESB can be contacted at 1800 372 999.

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