Met Éireann has issued a Status Orange Rain Warning for Waterford, with intense rain associated with Storm Austen expected from 10pm, Thursday, October 22^nd to 5am, Friday, October 23^rd.

A Status Yellow Warning for Rain and Wind for Ireland will be in effect from 7pm Thursday, October 22^nd until 10am, Friday, October 23^rd.

Storm Austen, the first named storm of the 2026/2027 season, named by the UK Met Office, is forecast to track eastwards across the county from Thursday evening to Friday morning, 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.

Waterford City and County Council advises 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.

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.

Key public safety messages:

• Storm Austen is expected to bring high levels of rainfall overnight on Thursday into Friday morning. People should monitor weather updates and heed all warnings issued by Met Éireann. There is the potential for flooding in southern and eastern areas.
• Wind speeds will be high in the south, east and midlands. Trees remain in full leaf at this time of year, making them more vulnerable to strong winds.
• Secure any loose outdoor items such as bins, garden furniture, trampolines and temporary structures before Thursday evening.
• Motorists should be alert for fallen trees, debris and difficult driving conditions, particularly during Thursday night and Friday’s morning commute.
• There is the potential for heavy rainfall, particularly in southern and eastern coastal counties. Localised flooding is possible, so never attempt to drive through flooded roads.
• While river levels currently have some capacity and tides are relatively low, people should not become complacent. Conditions can change quickly during severe weather.
• Allow extra time for essential travel.
• People are advised to prepare for this period of severe weather, including ensuring their mobile phone is fully charged to enable communication.
• Monitor Met Éireann forecasts and/or visit https://www.met.ie/ for the most up to date information. Information is available across social media platforms and other news media sources.
• ESB Networks is highlighting the dangers posed by fallen live wires and is advising the public and the emergency services to stay away from these fallen cables and to report such cases to it immediately. ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999. The public can monitor www.PowerCheck.ie in regards to power restoration times.

Emergency contact numbers:
Emergency 999/112
Uisce Éireann 1800 278 278
ESB Networks 1800 372 999
Gas Networks Ireland 1800 205 050