Waterford braced for ‘intense rain’ of Storm Austen as advice issued to public
Met Éireann has issued a Status Orange weather warning for Waterford for tonight
The Waterford public has been issued with advice ahead of the arrival of Storm Austen this evening.
Met Éireann has issued a Status Orange rain warning for Waterford, which will be in effect from 10pm tonight until 5am tomorrow morning.
Meanwhile, a Status Yellow wind and rain warning will be in effect nationwide from 7pm this evening until 10am tomorrow.
Waterford City and County Council has advised the public to exercise caution, heed public safety advice and avoid unnecessary journeys as driving conditions may be hazardous, with surface water flooding expected.
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.
Storm Austen, the first named storm of the 2026/2027 season, is forecast to track eastwards across the county this evening, bringing heavy rain and strong easterly winds.
Potential impacts are likely to include localised flooding from urban and fast responding smaller watercourses/catchments, drains, channels and flooding from overland flow, fallen trees and branches and loose debris resulting in very difficult travelling conditions.
With weather expected to remain unsettled over the Bank Holiday weekend, events may also be impacted by the weather warning, and event organisers are advised to assess risks ahead of proceeding with outdoor events.
Waterford City and County Council’s Severe Weather Assessment Team (SWAT) is actively monitoring the situation.
Ground crews are on stand-by to deal with issues as they arise, such as localised flooding, blocked drains, gulley overflows, etc.
In the event that sandbags are required, they will be available at Waterford City and County Council Machinery Yards in Dungarvan and Carrickphierish in the city, the Tramore depot and Passage East.
Members of the public can contact Waterford City and County Council’s Customer Services Desk on 0818 10 20 20.
Outside of office hours calls will be transferred to the council’s emergency services number.