Unsettled Weather and Highest Astronomical Tides for Cork – Update 15/12/2020 4.00PM

Met Eireann have issued a status Orange Wind Warning valid from 21.00 tonight, (Tuesday) to 09.00 tomorrow (Wednesday).  Due to high seas, as a result of high astronomical Spring Tides approaching Highest Astronomical Tide, and strong onshore winds, there is a risk of coastal flooding tonight and on Wednesday. Gale force southeast winds, veering southwest gusting 90 to 110km/h generally, higher in exposed areas, have been forecasted.

Cork County Council’s Severe Weather Assessment Team convened again this afternoon and is calling upon all coastal communities, in particular property owners in Bantry, Clonakilty, Ring, Kinsale, Midleton (along the Bailick Road and Dwyers Road), and also in Dunmanway to undertake appropriate measures to protect their property.

Some of the measures carried out by Council staff to alleviate the impact of a flooding incident include:

  • Sandbags and pumping equipment in situ in Bantry.
  • Pumping equipment at Baby walk Midleton. 
  • Dam constructed at Dwyer’s road Midleton.

Council staff will remain on standby throughout the county at known locations which are susceptible to flooding.

Dursey cable car will not operate once wind speeds exceed 65km/hr.  Operations will recommence following an inspection by Council staff.

Members of the public are advised to stay dry and stay away from the coast, rivers and lakes.

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 advised to avoid driving through flowing or standing water and to exercise caution during heavy wind and rain. Motorists are also asked to be conscious of cyclists and pedestrians.

The strong winds may give rise to localised power outages. In the event of disruption to power supply, please contact ESB Networks at 1850 372 999.  Fallen or grounded wires should be avoided and the public are advised call ESB in assisting with the identification of location of fallen wires. In the event of disruption to water supply, please contact Irish Water at 1850 278 278.

Issues such as fallen trees and road damage can be reported to the local Council office during working hours (Monday to Friday 09.00 to 17.00) or via the emergency number (021) 4800048 outside of these hours.

Cork County Council will continue to monitor this situation.  Further updates will issue as more information becomes available. Updates will be provided on Cork County Council’s website www.corkcoco.ie and across the Council’s social media channels @Corkcoco