An orange weather warning has been issued for the south of Ireland on Sunday, following a yellow rain warning that already covered large parts of the country this weekend.
What happened
Met Éireann warned that heavy rain will arrive in the west of Ireland on Saturday evening, prompting a yellow rain warning for Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Donegal and Connacht from 6 pm Saturday until midnight Monday. The warning was upgraded to orange – the second most severe level – for counties Cork and Kerry on Sunday, with conditions expected from 3 am to 6 pm.
The orange warning cites “significant” river and surface‑water flooding, hazardous travelling conditions and poor visibility. A further yellow rain warning will be in force for Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford from midnight Sunday until 3 am Monday, and the UK Met Office has issued a yellow rain warning for parts of Northern Ireland from midnight Sunday to 6 am Monday. A status yellow gale warning also covers the Irish Sea and surrounding coasts from midday Saturday to 4 pm Sunday.
Why it matters
Flood risk is heightened by high river levels and saturated ground, making river and surface‑water flooding likely across the affected counties. Difficult travelling conditions and reduced visibility could disrupt daily commutes and emergency responses. The warnings follow Storm Bram, which recently left thousands without power and caused significant coastal flooding.
What could happen next
If the heavy rain persists, additional flooding could develop in the counties under the yellow warning, especially Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford, where the forecaster noted a likelihood of flooding. The gale warning may keep winds strong across coastal areas, potentially delaying clean‑up operations.
Looking ahead, Met Éireann suggests that rain may linger over the southeast next week while drier, brighter conditions are expected elsewhere. Tuesday could bring largely dry and bright weather with isolated showers in the west, offering a potential window for recovery activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which counties are under the orange weather warning?
The orange warning applies to counties Cork and Kerry, and is expected to last from 3 am to 6 pm on Sunday.
What impacts are associated with the orange warning?
The forecaster indicated “significant” river and surface‑water flooding, hazardous travelling conditions and poor visibility.
When does the yellow rain warning for Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford run?
The yellow rain warning for those counties is in effect from midnight on Sunday until 3 am on Monday.
How are you preparing for the forecasted weather challenges?
Related reading