Status Orange rain warning for Cork, Kerry and Waterford

A Status Orange rain warning has come into effect for Counties Cork and Kerry and another in Waterford scheduled to begin from midday with Met Éireann warning of "very heavy and persistent rain" in parts.

The warning for Cork and Kerry remains in place until midnight.

For Co Waterford, the warning will come into place at noon and remain in place until midnight also.

The forecaster is warning of "very heavy and persistent rain, with highest accumulations in mountainous areas of Kerry and west Cork".

Potential impacts include river and coastal flooding, and travel disruption.

Meanwhile, a Status Yellow warning will be in place for counties Clare, Limerick, Galway and Mayo for the remainder of the day.

The forecaster is warning of localised flooding and difficult travelling conditions.

A gale warning has also been issued by Met Éireann for this afternoon.

It said southeasterly winds will reach gale force 8 at times on Irish coastal waters from Dungarvan to Mizen Head to Loop Head.

It is forecast to be cloudy and wet across the country with rainy spells extending eastwards across the country from morning.

RSA warning

The Road Safety Authority is asking all road users to exercise caution, and to check local traffic and weather conditions before setting out on a journey.

Drivers are advised to slow down and allow a greater braking distance, and drive with dipped headlights at all times.

Additional care is advised when driving behind goods vehicles, as they generate a considerable amount of spray which reduces visibility.

"If the road ahead is flooded, choose another route, do not attempt to drive through it.

"Flooded roads that appear shallow could be deeper than you think.

"The verge may have subsided and there may also be trees or branches that have fallen that may not be visible," a spokesperson said.

The RSA added that drivers should allow extra space between themselves and vulnerable road users such as cyclists and motorcyclists as they may be blown off course by strong winds.

Other road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists are advised to consider wearing high visibility material and to take extra care when travelling in bad weather.