Kilkenny braced for heavy rain and strong winds as Storm Austen nears

People in Kilkenny are being urged to take precautions ahead of heavy rain and strong winds associated with Storm Austen, which are expected to spread eastwards across Ireland on Thursday evening.

A Status Yellow rain and wind warning is in place from 7pm on Thursday, October 22, until 8am on Friday, October 23, with difficult travelling conditions, localised flooding and disruption to outdoor events among the potential impacts.

Members of the public are being advised to prepare for deteriorating weather conditions, particularly on exposed roads and in areas vulnerable to flooding.

Heavy rainfall could lead to surface water accumulating on roads, localised flooding and reduced visibility for motorists.

Drivers are being urged to reduce speed, increase braking distances and allow additional time for journeys.

Motorists should also be alert for standing water, fallen branches and debris, while avoiding flooded roads where the depth or condition of the water is uncertain.

Strong and gusty winds could create additional hazards, particularly on exposed routes and bridges.

Drivers are advised to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and take extra care when passing cyclists, motorcyclists and high-sided vehicles.

Delays and diversions may be possible where conditions deteriorate.

Kilkenny households are also being encouraged to secure loose outdoor objects, including garden furniture, bins and other items that could be blown around by strong winds.

People should also take additional care near trees, buildings and temporary structures, with fallen branches and windblown debris posing potential hazards.

Householders are advised to check drains and gutters where it is safe to do so and move valuables away from areas susceptible to flooding.

Residents should keep mobile phones charged, have torches and basic supplies available and be prepared for possible interruptions to electricity supplies.

People are also encouraged to check on vulnerable neighbours, particularly older residents and those living alone.

Farmers across Kilkenny are being advised to take extra precautions ahead of the expected wet and windy conditions.

Recommended measures include checking drainage channels and watercourses where safe, moving livestock away from flood-prone areas where necessary and securing loose equipment and materials.

Additional caution is advised when operating agricultural machinery in wet, flooded or windy conditions.

Members of the public are being reminded to stay clear of flooded rivers, streams and other fast-flowing water.

Children and pets should be kept away from floodwater, while motorists and pedestrians should never enter flooded areas where the water depth is unknown.

There is also a risk of electricity supply disruption during the unsettled weather.

People should never approach fallen or damaged power lines, which must always be treated as live.

Electricity emergencies can be reported to ESB Networks on 1800 372 999, while outages can be monitored through PowerCheck.ie.

Residents are encouraged to monitor the latest forecasts and weather warnings from Met Éireann as Storm Austen approaches.

Local updates and public safety information will also be available through Kilkenny County Council's official Facebook page and Instagram account.

The Status Yellow warning is currently scheduled to remain in effect until 8am on Friday, October 23.