Cities on flood alert as high tides and winds are forecast

CORK and Galway have been put on flood alert for the weekend, with the west forecast to be worst affected.

Irish Water Safety said the country would experience its largest tide fluctuations this year, with Galway worst hit with a high tide of 5.3 metres and the low water receding to -.1 metre. There will also be heavy rain and strong south to westerly winds.

Cork City Council has issued an alert for Sunday morning. It says a tidal surge and strong south-to -south-easterly winds are predicted. These factors combined will increase the tide levels.