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National Directorate for Fire & Emergency Management statement on Storm Bert

The National Directorate for Fire & Emergency Management (NDFEM), Met Éireann and relevant agencies met this morning to discuss the weather warnings associated with Storm Bert, which will affect Ireland’s weather tonight and into the weekend.

Met Éireann is predicting very strong winds and heavy rain across the country, which could lead to localised flooding, travel disruption and fallen trees.

In particular, there is a Status Red Level rain warning for Cork and Galway from midnight tonight until 10am tomorrow and a Status Orange Level Rain warning for Waterford, Kerry, Clare, Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim for the period. These counties may see particularly intense falls of rain over a short period of time, leading to surface flooding, possible river flooding, and very difficult travelling conditions. A status yellow Wind and Rain warning is also in place for the whole country from 10pm until midday tomorrow.

The NDFEM will continue to liaise with Met Éireann and monitor the situation to coordinate an appropriate response. On the ground, Local Authority Severe Weather Assessment Teams (SWATs) will continue to monitor conditions locally and Local Authorities have their emergency response teams in place, ready to respond where and when necessary.

Met Éireann weather warnings currently in place

Status Yellow Wind and Rain warning for Leinster, Munster, Connacht, Cavan and Monaghan

Valid: 22:00 Friday - 12:00 Saturday

Status Yellow Snow-Ice, Rain and Wind warning for Donegal

Valid: 10:00 Friday – 12:00 Saturday

Status Red Rain warning for Galway and Cork

Valid: 00:00 Saturday - 10:00 Saturday

Status Orange Rain warning for Waterford, Kerry, Clare, Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim

Valid: 00:00 Saturday – 10:00 Saturday

Status Yellow Wind warning for Cork, Kerry, Waterford, Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford and Wicklow

Valid: 17:00 Saturday – 02:00 Sunday

Public advice

Keith Leonard, National Director of the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management, emphasised:

“It is quite clear that we will have challenging weather conditions at local level in many counties in the west and south west. Local Authority severe weather teams are activated and are preparing for the storm’s approach.

“For those in areas affected by red level rain and wind warnings, I would particularly stress that the safest advice for those affected is to shelter in place and do not travel during the duration of the warning. As weather events are changeable ones, members of the public should monitor Met Éireann’s ongoing advice and act accordingly. Essential Service Operators will link with Met Éireann aiming to continue operations subject to the prevailing local conditions. Even after the storm has passed, there is a strong possibility of road flooding or fallen trees so drivers are urged to take care in the aftermath of the storm.

“For all members of the public, whatever part of the country you are in, rain and winds will be a factor overnight and early tomorrow. I would urge you to stay away from coastal areas during this period and to heed the appeal from the Irish Coast Guard for people to ‘Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry’.

“Also, dangerous travelling conditions are possible and road users should pay particular attention to the risk posed by fallen trees. In addition to this, heavy persistent showers are expected, which in turn may lead to surface flooding in urban locations.”

Further public safety advice includes:

  • people are advised to prepare for the arrival of the storm including ensuring their mobile phone is fully charged to enable communication
  • in the case of emergency call 999 or 112
  • road conditions will be extremely hazardous across the country this weekend. Never drive through flooded roads, the depth of the water can be deceiving
  • monitor Met Éireann forecasts and / or visit the Met Éireann website for the most up to date information. Information is available across social media platforms and other news media sources
  • ESB Networks is highlighting the dangers posed by fallen live wires and is advising the public and the emergency services to stay away from these fallen cables and to report such cases to it immediately. ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999. The public can monitor the PowerCheck website regarding power restoration times

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