Severe weather team and crews on standby in Waterford as Storm Chandra set to land

Waterford City and County Council’s severe weather management team are monitoring the impact of Storm Chandra.

The storm is expected to bring heavy and persistent bands of rain as well as strong gusts on Tuesday, January 27.

A status yellow weather warning for rain will be in place from 12am until 11pm and a yellow weather warning for wind will be in effect from 5am.

With grounds already saturated, the council expect localised flooding, wave overtopping, fallen trees, loose debris and difficult travelling conditions.

Ground crews are on standby to deal with any issues that arise, including localised flooding, blocked drains and gulley overflows.

Waterford City and County Council advises the public to exercise caution, heed public safety advice and avoid unnecessary journeys.

Motorists are advised to slow down, increase stopping distances and watch for surface water, fallen trees and branches and debris on roads.

Avoid driving through flowing or standing water, and if the road ahead is flooded, do not enter, turn around and find another route.

Motorists are also reminded to be conscious of vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists.

Members of the public can contact Waterford City and County Council’s Customer Services Desk on 0818 10 20 20. Outside of office hours calls will be transferred to the Council’s emergency services number.

Key public safety messages from the council are:

• * There is a potential for tidal flooding in coastal areas, especially in eastern counties. In addition to this, heavy persistent showers are expected, which in turn may lead to surface flooding in urban locations.
• High seas - the public is advised to stay away from coastal areas during this period. The Irish Coast Guard are appealing to people to “Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry”.
• Stay away from swollen rivers, streams and flooded riverbanks – banks can collapse without warning.
• Avoid open riverbanks and canal paths in flood conditions – water levels and currents may be far stronger than usual.
• Avoid contact with floodwater where possible; it may be contaminated with sewage, chemicals or sharp debris.
• People are advised to prepare for this period of severe weather, including ensuring their mobile phone is fully charged to enable communication.
• 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 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 www.PowerCheck.ie in regards to power restoration times.

Please note the following emergency contact numbers below:

Emergency 999/112 Uisce Éireann 1800 278 278 ESB Networks 1800 372 999 Gas Networks Ireland 1800 205 050