Met Éireann has issued updated Orange and Yellow rain warnings, along with a nationwide Weather Advisory, as heavy rainfall increases the risk of flooding and dangerous travel conditions across Ireland.
Spells of intense and persistent rain are expected to fall on already saturated ground. Combined with high river levels and high tides, this significantly increases the risk of localised flooding, river flooding, and hazardous road conditions.
Motorists and road users are being urged to check traffic and weather updates before travelling and to take extra care on affected routes.
Orange Rain Warnings for Dublin, Wicklow, Waterford and Louth
Orange rain warnings are currently in place for several counties, where flooding and difficult travel conditions are likely.
The warnings apply to:
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Dublin and Wicklow: From 12 noon Thursday to 12 noon Friday
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Waterford: From 9am Thursday to 9am Friday
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Louth: From 12am Thursday to 6pm Friday
Met Éireann has warned that very heavy rainfall, combined with saturated ground and elevated river levels, may cause significant local and river flooding. This could impact communities along entire river courses and make driving conditions dangerous.
Road users in these counties should expect surface water, reduced visibility, and possible road closures.
Yellow Rain Warnings Issued for Multiple Counties
Yellow rain warnings have also been issued for several counties, with further flooding and travel disruption expected.
The warnings apply to:
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Cavan, Meath and Monaghan: From 12 noon Thursday to 6pm Friday
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Dublin and Wicklow: From 9am to 12 noon Thursday
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Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Tipperary and Wexford: From 9am Thursday to 9am Friday
Heavy rainfall in these areas may lead to:
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Localised flooding
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River flooding
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Reduced visibility
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Hazardous driving conditions
Drivers are advised to slow down and remain alert.
Nationwide Weather Advisory Remains in Place Until 9 February
A nationwide Weather Advisory remains in effect until Monday, 9 February.
Met Éireann said heavy and persistent rainfall will continue, particularly in southern and eastern coastal counties. With ground already saturated and rivers running high, the additional rainfall and high tides increase the likelihood of flooding.
Travel disruption and dangerous road conditions are expected in some areas.
Road users should monitor local traffic updates and avoid unnecessary journeys where flooding is present.
Road Safety Advice for Drivers During Heavy Rain and Flooding
Drivers are urged to take extra precautions during wet and flooded conditions.
Key safety advice includes:
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Slow down and maintain a greater braking distance from the vehicle in front
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Take extra care on motorways and dual carriageways due to the increased risk of aquaplaning
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Be cautious when driving behind trucks or buses, as spray can reduce visibility
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Never drive through flooded roads, as water may be deeper than it appears
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Avoid roads with Road Closed signs and always follow official diversions
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After driving through water, gently apply brakes to help dry them
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Always drive with dipped headlights in poor weather conditions
Floodwater can hide serious road damage, including potholes, debris, or collapsed road edges.
Safety Advice for Pedestrians, Cyclists and E-Scooter Users
Pedestrians and vulnerable road users are also at increased risk during poor weather.
Safety advice includes:
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Walk facing oncoming traffic if no footpath is available
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Cyclists should use front and rear lights at all times
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Wear bright or high-visibility clothing
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Ensure you are clearly visible to other road users
Poor visibility and wet conditions increase the risk of accidents for everyone on the road.
Flooding and Heavy Rain Expected to Cause Travel Disruption
With Orange and Yellow rain warnings in place and further rainfall expected, road users across Ireland should remain alert and take precautions.
Drivers are strongly advised to avoid flooded roads, slow down, and allow extra travel time.
Checking weather updates and planning journeys carefully can help reduce risks during severe weather.
