Met Éireann, the Irish meteorological service, has issued a severe warning to households, advising them to prepare for the second phase of Storm Chandra. This massive low-pressure system initially struck the Republic of Ireland with heavy rain and strong winds, but experts are cautioning about further impact as the storm loops back around.
According to the national weather service, an area of persistent rain will move up from the southeast, leading to widespread rainfall. As it progresses northward, it is expected to encounter cooler air, potentially resulting in mixed precipitation and sleet in elevated regions. After the initial rain clears, a brief period of dry and sunny weather is anticipated before the storm returns, bringing more rain across the country. The southern and eastern regions are likely to experience the heaviest rainfall.
Currently, two weather alerts are active in Ireland and are scheduled to remain in place until nearly midnight. A wind warning, initially covering seven counties, has been expanded to encompass the entire nation until 11 pm. Additionally, a rain warning is in effect for specific areas until the same time.
Described as a “multi hazard event,” the forecast includes risks of flooding, power outages, fallen trees, and hazardous travel conditions. Met Éireann advises households to ensure their mobile devices are fully charged to facilitate communication during the event and to have local emergency numbers saved in their phones.
As of 11 am, approximately 20,000 properties in Ireland were without power, with reports of flooding incidents in Dublin. Public transportation services, such as Dart trains and ferry crossings between Dublin and Holyhead, have experienced disruptions, and flight cancellations have been cautioned at Dublin Airport.
Met Éireann meteorologist Rebecca Cantwell explained that Storm Chandra is a low-pressure system moving northward over Ireland, bringing wet and windy conditions. The rainfall, combined with already saturated ground and high river levels, is expected to cause localized and river flooding, especially in the southeastern counties under yellow level rainfall warnings. Strong winds, particularly along the coast, have prompted a nationwide wind warning.
The public is urged to exercise caution due to the challenging travel conditions expected during the warning period. Coastal areas may experience strong winds and potential wave overtopping, leading to advice from the Irish Coast Guard to “Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry.” Recommendations include avoiding flooded roads, staying away from water bodies, and following guidance from local authorities and road agencies.
