Cork County Council Update in Advance of Orange Weather Warning for Cork

A Orange weather warning signifying hazardous weather conditions forecasted

Cork County Council’s Severe Weather Assessment Team convened this afternoon ahead of a Met Éireann Status Orange Rain and Snow warning for Cork.  The Status Orange warning will be in effect from 5.00pm this evening until 5.00pm tomorrow Sunday, January 5th. A Status Yellow Rain and Snow warning is now in place. 

Significant accumulations of heavy rain, transitioning to sleet and snow, is forecast throughout this evening and tomorrow. This will lead to very difficult travelling conditions; localised flooding; poor visibility; travel disruption delays to public transport likely; difficult conditions underfoot and animal welfare issues. 

Cork County Council crews have inspected key high-risk areas and will continue to monitor the situation throughout the period. Sandbags and pumping arrangements have been put in place where required. As a precautionary measure, flood barriers are being erected in Fermoy and Mallow.  

Motorists are asked to avoid unnecessary journeys as driving conditions will be hazardous. Never drive through flooded roads, the depth of the water can be deceiving.

The Council will continue to implement its Winter Maintenance Plan which involves treating identified priority routes across the county. The plan and route map is available on the Council’s website: https://www.corkcoco.ie/en/resident/roads-and-transportation/severe-weather-information-warnings-road-alerts.

Rainfall may limit the effectiveness of salting already undertaken. Motorists should continue to exercise care even where roads have been treated.  

Members of the public can contact Cork County Council’s Out of Hours number 021 4800048 to report any out of hours issues.

Key Safety Messages:

  • Wintry showers and icy surfaces will lead to difficult travel conditions
  • Driving conditions will be hazardous, even where roads are gritted, slow down, drive with caution, be aware of other road users and allow extra time for your journey.
  • Drivers travelling longer journeys are advised to be aware of conditions right along their route, as the weather may vary significantly across different parts of the country.
  • Public transport may also be affected by this spell of wintry weather, check with service operators for the latest updates in their area.
  • Take extra care while walking: footpaths etc. can be extremely hazardous/slippery due to ice
  • Check on elderly, vulnerable and isolated neighbours
  • Keep your phone charged and take it with you on all journeys. In an emergency dial 999 or 112
  • The Be Winter Ready website https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/aa78b9-be-winter-ready provides further advice on preparing for severe weather.
  • Monitor Met Éireann forecasts and/or visit https://www.met.ie/ for the most up to date information. Information is available across social media platforms and other news media sources.
  • ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999. The public can monitor www.PowerCheck.ie.
  • Uisce Éireann Customers can check their website and social media channels for updates and can report any issues or concerns via its 24/7 customer care centre at 1800 278 278. 
  • People are advised to conserve water, and visit https://www.water.ie for advice
  • Farmers are advised to take all precautions when dealing with livestock and possibly working alone

Cork County Council will continue to provide updates on www.corkcoco.ie and across the Council’s social media channels @Corkcoco.