Waterford's severe weather management team meet ahead of the latest wave of warnings
Motorists are advised to be careful of flooding and if sandbags are needed, Waterford council will make them available. Stock Image.
Waterford City and County Council’s severe weather management team has met as Met Éireann issues another yellow rain warning.
The latest weather warning will be in effect from 12pm. today until midnight on Saturday.
“Waterford City and County Council’s severe weather management team convened this morning and is actively monitoring the situation.
"Ground crews are on stand-by to deal with any issues that may arise, such as localised flooding, blocked drains, gulley overflows, etc.
“Waterford City and County Council advises the public to exercise caution, heed public safety advice and avoid unnecessary journeys as driving conditions may be hazardous, with surface water and spot flooding expected,” said a council spokesperson.
The council are concerned that with the ground already saturated and high river levels will lead to localised flooding and difficult travelling conditions.
Motorists are advised to slow down, increase stopping distances and watch for surface water 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 such as pedestrians and cyclists.
If sandbages are needed, they will be available from Waterford City and County Council Machinery Yards in Dungarvan and Carrickphierish in the city.
Waterford City and County Council’s Customer Services Desk can be contacted on 0818 10 20 20.
Outside of office hours, calls will be transferred to the Council’s emergency services number.
Key public safety messages:
- 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 for 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
