The worst is still to come.

High tide has seen parts of Cork city flooded this morning, as well as heavy flooding in Bantry. However, there is more to come — as Cork is set to bear the brunt of the high speed winds that will batter Ireland until around 9pm tonight.

Gardaí have issued a warning to the public to stay home if possible rather than risk making unnecessary journeys.

In a statement issued on Monday evening, An Garda Síochána said: “The wind will be the biggest risk but there will also be very heavy rain. This rain is in conjunction with high tides creates a significant flood and tide-lock risk.

“The heaviest impacts of ‘Storm Barra’ will be felt particularly in the West, with Cork, Kerry and Clare in a status red warning. Limerick and Galway are expected to go to a status red warning. Orange marine warnings are already in place, and these are also valid on land in coastal regions.”

Nationally, there are already 35,000 people without power as of 9am on Tuesday morning.

With the arrival of #StormBarra tomorrow, we continue to advise that all unnecessary travel should be avoided where Red and Orange warnings are in place

We advise the public to regularly monitor https://t.co/TJBfRQ159T for further updates over the next two days https://t.co/YPUJYgYoR8

— An Garda Síochána (@GardaTraffic) December 6, 2021

Gardaí issued the following advice to those trying to manage the storm today.

• All unnecessary travel should be avoided where Red and Orange level wind warnings are in place. These winds will make driving conditions hazardous, especially for more vulnerable road users such as cyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists and high sided vehicles.

• Road users should pay particular attention to the risk posed by fallen trees, flying debris and flooded roads.

• High seas and wave activity will make coastal areas hazardous. The public are advised to stay away from coastal areas/cliff walks during this period.

• People are advised to remove or secure patio and garden furniture, rubbish bins and any loose items from around buildings.

• Those involved in building work should review hoarding and scaffolding in light of heavy rain and winds expected.

• Members of the public should stay away from any fallen power lines, members of the public should assume that they are live. If you see fallen or damaged wires, keep clear and phone ESB Networks immediately on 1800 372 999/021 238 2410

• People are advised not to park any vehicle in an area that may be prone to flooding.

• People who are considering recreation activities in waterways/coast line areas are asked to reconsider this, as it may result in Emergency Services being called to attend and diverting them from other issues.

• Local authorities will provide updated information on flooding and local conditions. People are advised to follow updated weather forecasts throughout the weekend.

Cork is one of three counties facing a status red wind warning due to damaging gusts of 130km/h.