Storm Jorge Alert

Severe Weather Update – 6.30pm Friday 28th February, 2020 – upgraded wind warning courtesy of Laois County Council.

Met Éireann has issued an updated its Orange Wind Warning status to include Leinster on Saturday 29th February, between 1.00pm and 7.00pm. Severe westerly winds associated with Storm Jorge will reach mean speeds of 65 to 80km/h for a time on Saturday afternoon and early evening with gust of up to 110 to 120 km/h, possibly higher in exposed areas.

Taking account of the upgraded wind warning for County Laois, coupled with a Yellow Rain Warning, there is an ongoing flood risk in County Laois through to next week. Predicted rainfall, taken in conjunction with prevailing river levels, may give rise to some localised spot flooding. This risk largely relates to the usual flood hotspots throughout the county and focuses on Saturday evening/night.

Sand bags and signage for road closures are already to hand and available from Laois County Council where required. Roads staff and Fire & Emergency crews are on standby to support flood management measures over the weekend.

Roads currently closed in Co. Laois – Old Leighlin Road, Graiguecullen.

Forecast winds also give rise to the possibility of fallen trees and these will be attended to in the normal way. Please take care to secure loose objects in order to minimise risks of damage or injury during this period.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is asking road users to exercise caution while using the roads over the next few days and the weekend. Road users should always follow recommended routes and obey signs closing roads to traffic. Where flooding requires road closures, please use diversionary routes and do not drive through floods.

Terrible flooding will affect many parts of Laois after Storm Jorge

For advice on severe weather driving tips, please see severe weather advice on the RSA website or check out the RSA Facebook and Twitter pages.

Further updates will issue as necessary.