'Choose another route': Drivers warned as RSA and Dublin City Council brace for impact of Storm Austen

DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL crews will be on the ground overnight on Thursday as the capital prepares for Storm Austen, while motorists have been warned not to attempt to drive through flooded roads.

The council’s Flood Response Team has put measures in place ahead of heavy rainfall expected from Thursday night into Friday morning.

Crews are clearing fallen leaves and debris, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas where drainage gullies can become obstructed during heavy autumn rain.

Council staff will “monitor weather forecasts and conditions” overnight and respond to any flooding or other issues.

Members of the public have been asked not to park over drainage gullies, so that water can drain freely, and to report urgent flooding or hazards outside normal working hours.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has separately urged people to exercise caution on Thursday and Friday, warning that flooded roads which appear shallow could be significantly deeper.

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“The verge may have subsided and there may also be trees or branches that have fallen that may not be visible,” the RSA said.

Drivers have been told to slow down, leave a greater braking distance and choose another route if a road is flooded.

The authority also warned that strong crosswinds could affect control of vehicles, with high-sided vehicles and motorcyclists particularly vulnerable.

Drivers should allow additional space when passing cyclists and motorcyclists, who may be blown off course, while pedestrians, cyclists and e-scooter users have been advised to wear bright or high-visibility clothing.

Status Orange rain warnings will apply in Cork, Kerry and Waterford from 10pm on Thursday until 5am on Friday.

A separate Orange warning will apply in Dublin, Wexford and Wicklow from 2am until 8am on Friday.

Met Éireann said intense rain could cause delays to public transport, flooding and very difficult travelling conditions.

A nationwide Status Yellow rain and wind warning will run from 7pm on Thursday until 10am on Friday, with possible localised flooding, fallen branches and debris on roads.