Enjoy the spring sunshine while it lasts.

Met Éireann has issued a Status Orange Rainfall warning for Cork, Kerry, Tipperary, Waterford, with an overnight deluge and flooding likely in the coming days.

Forecasters predict that “very heavy rain on Monday night and Tuesday will likely cause further river flooding and surface water flooding.”

Rainfall totals of 50 to 80mm, higher in mountainous regions, are expected.

Wet & windy weather on the way tonight and tomorrow ☔️🌬️

We’ve issued #wind & #rain warnings for many with an orange warning for heavy rain across #Cork #Kerry #Tipperary and #Waterford ⚠️☔️🌬️

For warning details see👉🏽https://t.co/XsMcw1LORv ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/p7zzwaFigx

— Met Éireann (@MetEireann) February 22, 2021

The Status Orange alert is valid from 7pm tonight, Monday until 9pm on Tuesday, February 23rd, 2021.

Conditions are expected to remain unsettled through midweek, “becoming more settled for the end of the week with mainly dry conditions and sunny spells.”

Flood prep advised

Cork City Council has warned that many of the rivers across the city will likely burst their banks due to the rain levels and current waterlogged nature of the ground. This may lead to localised flooding.

People who live in areas prone to river flooding (not tidal flooding) are advised to take active measures to protect their property.

“People living and working in areas prone to river flooding are advised that sandbags and gel bags are available at our Anglesea Terrace Depot and Tramore Valley Park Civic Amenity Site up to 7pm tonight (Monday) for your protection,” said Director of Operations, David Joyce.

If you need emergency help, contact Cork City Council Customer Service Unit at 021 4924000 from 9am to 5pm or use emergency number: 021 4966512.