The Daily Star Ireland
Storm Bert is posing a significant threat, with nearly three weeks’ worth of rain expected to fall within a few hours overnight. Met Éireann has issued a Status Red warning, the highest alert level, for Galway and Cork as the storm approaches Ireland with heavy rain and winds gusting up to 110 km/h.
The effects of this second Atlantic storm of the season will be exacerbated by the recent Arctic weather. Met Éireann officials expressed concern that some areas could see a rapid transition from snowfall to heavy rain, increasing the risk of severe local flooding.
There are growing concerns that rainfall could reach up to 80mm in Galway and Cork in just a few hours, whereas the average rainfall for December is 123mm. The Status Red rainfall warning is in effect for these counties from midnight until 10 am today.
Due to the potential risk to life, residents in the affected areas are advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and keep away from swollen waterways. West Cork and parts of Connemara in Galway are expected to be hit hardest by the storm. Public transport will be suspended during the alert period.
A Status Orange rainfall warning is also in place for Waterford, Kerry, Clare, Mayo, Sligo, and Leitrim until 10 am today. Donegal is under a Status Yellow warning for snow, ice, rain, and wind until midday.
Met Éireann has indicated that most counties will receive around 30mm of rainfall overnight, but Galway and Cork could see significantly higher amounts, potentially exceeding 40mm to 50mm.
In Cork, particular concern is focused on flood-prone towns like Midleton and Bantry, which lack flood defense schemes. The combination of heavy rain and melting snow could lead to severe flooding, damaging properties and roads.
Liz Walsh from Met Éireann warned about the significant potential impact of Storm Bert, noting the large volume of rain in the system. She highlighted the risk of snow followed by heavy rain, which could cause serious flooding issues, especially in the northwest.
Severe weather assessment teams met in Cork, Galway, and other counties, with council crews and fire brigade units on standby to address any issues. However, the public has been warned that repair crews can only be deployed when it is safe.
Households also face the risk of power cuts, as over 10,000 homes and businesses lost power earlier this week due to icy conditions, mostly in Galway, Mayo, Clare, Limerick, Cork, and Kerry. Repair teams worked immediately to restore power, and all households had their supply restored by Thursday evening. ESB crews remain on standby.
