Laois warned to expect potential disruptions as 'unpredictable' Storm Bram to hit

People in Laois have been advised that the county is not entirely safe from any potential flooding or disruptions that Storm Bram may bring despite being excluded from the current rain warning.

Met Éireann have issued a Status Orange wind warning for Cork, Kerry, Waterford, and Wexford which is valid from 7am to 3pm on Tuesday, December 9. Another Status Orange wind warning has been issued for Clare, Limerick, Donegal, Leitrim, Mayo, and Sligo which is valid from 10am to 6pm on Tuesday.

A Status Yellow rain warning has also been issued for Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Cork, Kerry, Tipperary, and Waterford which is valid from 9pm on Monday night to 9am on Tuesday morning. However, the entire country has been placed under a Status Yellow wind warning which will be valid from 3am to 9pm on Tuesday.

The National Directorate for Fire & Emergency Management (NDFEM) met with all Local Authorities, relevant Government Departments, state agencies and utility providers on Monday to plan and prepare for Storm Bram which has been described as "an unpredictable weather event."

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The NDFEM has warned that all areas are at risk for flooding, including the counties with a yellow weather warning or no weather warming at all. Due to the high levels of rainfall in recent weeks, counties such as Laois could face more flooding once Storm Bram hits.

In a statement, the NDFEM said: "The forecast rain is expected to arrive in areas where ground levels are already saturated, and many rivers are already at capacity. This brings a significant risk of flooding, particularly in Munster and coastal counties, where the timing of high tides may coincide with strong winds, creating a further risk of flooding."

The public are advised that this storm could potentially cause "significant damage and disruption", leading to difficult travel conditions, fallen trees and debris, as well as possible disruptions to transport services and scheduled events.

The NDFEM assured that Local Authorities and Transport Infrastructure Ireland will be responding to any affected areas. However, they cautioned that some roads may be closed due to debris and drivers should take considerable care when driving during strong winds or rain.

They said: "As this is an unpredictable weather event, the weather warnings are subject to change as the situation evolves. The public is advised to monitor the Met Éireann website for the latest information in relation to weather warnings."

As the country braces for Storm Bram to hit on Tuesday, people have been urged to follow the advice of emergency services and Local Authorities. Additionally, people are asked to check in with any vulnerable neighbours, take extra precautions when travelling, and stay away from swollen rivers or streams.

In the case of power outages in Laois, people can monitor www.PowerCheck.ie to keep an eye on restoration times. People can also sign up online to Uisce Éireann's free text alert system for any updates in their area.

For local updates on road closures, flooding, or community alerts, people can monitor Laois County Council's website and social media channels.

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