Significant flooding is occurring across the city.

And with closed roads and traffic delays causing havoc since dawn, Cork City Council is asking motorists not to take any chances as the Storm Babet deluge continues.

“South Terrace, and adjoining streets, were seriously impacted by surface water this morning as was North Mall and the South City Link Road.” said a spokesperson.

“Lavitts Quay, Popes Quay, and Wandesford Quay in the city centre and Glanmire, Rochestown and Blarney were also flooded badly.

“A number of motorists drove into flood waters this morning and had to be rescued by emergency services.”

⚠️ Westbound traffic lane closed on North Mall due to surface flooding.
Gel bags also being used to protect property ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/WDapv56wUy

— Cork City Council (@corkcitycouncil) October 18, 2023

Cork City Council is advising people to drive with care because of flood waters and poor visibility and not to enter heavily flooded roads as emergency services are at full capacity.

Up to 100 Cork City Council staff have been at 50 different locations preparing for the flood event and responding to various issues as they arose. Over the past three days, operations crews cleared gullies and trash screens at regular intervals.

Heavy rain is expected until lunchtime today but then it will begin to ease, meaning river levels can drop and roads can be re-opened.

“In Blarney, the River Shournagh will likely remain in flood until teatime so motorists are advised to plan accordingly,” they added.

While the weather will remain wet in the coming days, tidal flooding is not expected.