Council gives tips to keep Kildare folk safe during Storm Bram

KILDARE County council has released a public safety message to the entire county this morning, urging people to stay safe and remain vigilant during the “multi hazard” Status Orange storm today, which could see floods and strong winds.

Members of the Kildare County Council Severe Weather Assessment Team met this morning and attended a Met Eireann briefing regarding the development of Storm Bram.

The weather warning in place for Kildare has been upgraded to an Orange wind warning extending from 11am to 7pm this Tuesday 9 December. A yellow wind warning will then remain in place until 9pm.

In Status Orange storms, it is possible to see structural damage, as well as fallen trees and flying debris, so people are advised to be aware of this and keep safe under these conditions.

Motorists are advised to anticipate strong cross winds and other hazards such as falling/fallen trees. High-sided vehicles and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to strong winds and are advised to slow down and give extra space to pedestrians and cyclists.

Organisers of events and activities should consider the wind warnings that are in place and monitor the local conditions; the cancellation of events may be necessary in some locations.

Stay away from swollen rivers, streams and flooded riverbanks – banks can collapse without warning, water levels and currents may be far stronger than usual.

Do not drive through floodwater – turn back and use another route.

The council urges folks to stay away from exposed coastal areas for the period of the orange warning and red Marine Warning.

Coastal areas may also experience wave overtopping, storm surge, and tidal flooding, especially in low-lying locations. Keep away from coastal edges, harbours, piers and low-lying promenades during high tide. The Irish Coast Guard advice remains: “stay back, stay high, stay dry.” People are advised to prepare for the impacts of the storm, including ensuring their mobile phone is fully charged to enable communication.

Check in with neighbours, older people or anyone who may need assistance in case conditions worsen.

Uisce Éireann customers can check the website and social media channels for updates and to get in touch with any issues or concerns via their 24/7 customer care centre at 1800 278 278. The public can also sign up online to their free text alert system to get regular updates about their local supplies - see www.water.ie.” ESB Networks is highlighting the dangers posed by fallen live wires and is advising the public and the emergency services to stay away from these fallen cables and to report such cases to it immediately. ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999. The public can monitor www.PowerCheck.ie regarding power restoration times.