Traffic delays reported on multiple routes as heavy rain hits Cork

All road users are warned to take additional care on the roads while warnings are in place. Picture: Denis Minihane.

Three separate warnings have been issued for counties in the south of the country today.

A Status Yellow rain warning is currently in place for Cork, Kerry Waterford and Wexford and will be lifted at 3pm on Wednesday. 

In an update on Wednesday morning, Met Éireann have said further rain is expected later in the afternoon, with some turning heavy at times. 

Areas under the yellow rain warning can expect heavy rain which may turn thundery.

There is a risk of localised flooding and travelling conditions may be difficult.

All road users are warned to take additional care on the roads while warnings are in place.

Traffic delays

Heavy traffic has been reported on all routes around Cork city, with significant delays on the N25 westbound, the city centre quays, the N20 southbound, and the N40.

Two incidents in Cork - on the South Ring Road and at the Jack Lynch Tunnel - caused delays on Wednesday morning. There was no report of any injuries arising from the collisions.

Elsewhere, a Status Yellow thunderstorm warning has been issued for counties Cork, Kerry, Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Tipperary and Waterford.

These counties will see scattered thunderstorms with lightning strikes while the warning is in effect. It will be lifted at midday.

Overall, Wednesday looks set to be largely wet with heavy showers gradually clearing the south of the country.

However, lingering rain around the south coast will persist into the evening when it will become lighter and more patchy.

Tonight will be mostly dry with the odd spot of drizzle as temperatures cool once again.

Thursday will bring a mix of cloud and sunny spells with rain likely in southern parts in the evening.

Looking ahead to the weekend and indications suggest more of the same with showers most frequent over Ulster, north Connacht and north Leinster.

Nights will be cold and clear with temperatures in the low single figures.