Met Eireann has issued a series of weather warnings and a nationwide advisory as heavy rain and high tides create a significant risk of flooding across Ireland.
Forecasters are warning of “more than twice or possibly three times” the average weekly rainfall for early February, with the most severe impacts expected in southern and eastern coastal counties.
Met Eireann states that spells of heavy and persistent rainfall will fall on already saturated ground where river levels are already at or above bank-full conditions. When combined with high spring tides and strong onshore winds, these conditions are expected to cause localised, river, and coastal flooding.
Two specific Status Yellow rain warnings are in place for Tuesday, February 3rd. The first covers Dublin, Louth, and Wicklow until 9:00 p.m. tonight. The second, covering Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Cork, and Waterford, remains valid until 3:00 p.m. this afternoon. Residents in these areas are advised to prepare for difficult travel conditions and potential flooding.
Today’s national forecast predicts a mostly cloudy day with rain moving northwards from the southern half of the country, followed by scattered showers this afternoon. Temperatures will range from 4 to 9 degrees Celsius with moderate to fresh easterly winds. Tonight will remain mostly cloudy with patchy rain and drizzle and lows of 1 to 7 degrees.
Marine conditions are also hazardous. A Status Yellow Small Craft warning is in effect for all Irish coasts until 6:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 4th, as east to southeast winds reach force 6 or higher.
Met Eireann reports that a strong jet stream to the south is anchoring an area of low pressure off the southwest coast, which will continue to generate rain throughout the week. Total accumulations between February 1st and February 6th are projected to reach between 30mm and 45mm.
Public safety advice includes avoiding floodwaters, staying back from riverbanks and coastal edges, and allowing extra time for travel. Authorities specifically warn drivers not to bypass road closure signs, as damage may be hidden beneath surface water.
Up-to-date information on the response to the conditions, referred to as Storm Chandra, is available through official government channels.