Met Éireann issues dual wind warnings: Orange Alert for coastal counties as Storm Bram approaches
Met Éireann has issued dual wind warnings across Ireland, including a severe Status Orange wind warning for four coastal counties, as a developing low-pressure system, potentially named Storm Bram, approaches. This system is forecast to bring very strong winds and significant coastal disruption on Tuesday.
Status Orange Warning: Cork, Kerry, Waterford, and Wexford
A Status Orange wind warning is now in effect for Cork, Kerry, Waterford, and Wexford. Storm Bram will bring very strong to gale force southerly winds, with the strongest winds expected along the coast.
This warning is valid from 7am on Tuesday, December 9th and expires at 15:00pm on Tuesday, December 9th.
The main impacts expected include:
-Flooding of low-lying coastal areas, especially during high tide.
-Wave overtopping.
-Difficult travel conditions.
-Debris and loose objects being displaced.
– Outdoor events being impacted.
For Cork City, the period of the Status Orange warning coincides with the morning high tide, which is predicted to occur around 08:29 AM GMT on Tuesday. This increases the likelihood of coastal flooding.
Status Yellow Warning: Nationwide Wind Alert
In addition to the Orange warning, a Status Yellow wind warning has been issued for the entire country. This warning is in place for a much longer period: from 3am on Tuesday, December 9th, until 9:00pm on Tuesday, December 9th.
The Yellow warning forecasts very strong and gusty southerly winds, with gales possible near coasts. An increased flood risk in coastal areas is noted due to the coincidence with very high spring tides.
Furthermore, a separate Status Yellow rain warning is also in effect for several southern and eastern counties, including Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Cork, Kerry, Tipperary, and Waterford. This rain warning is valid from 9pm on Monday, December 8th to 9am on Tuesday, December 9th Heavy rain is expected to fall on already saturated ground, which could lead to localised flooding and difficult travel conditions.
Advice to the Public
The public is strongly advised to exercise extreme caution across all affected counties, especially along the southern and western coasts. Given the combination of wind, rain, and high tides, prepare for difficult travel conditions, potential flooding, and displaced debris. Check local council updates for road closures and stay informed on power outages.
