Five counties are under a status yellow rain warning overnight, with Met Éireann warning of heavy rainfall, difficult travel conditions and possible localised flooding. The alert covers Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo and Sligo and remains in place into Thursday morning.
Key details of the Ireland weather warning
- Counties affected: Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo and Sligo
- Main risks: Heavy rain, poor visibility, hazardous driving conditions and localised flooding
- Period covered: Overnight and into Thursday morning
- Forecast: Widespread rain at first, followed by heavy showers in many parts of the country
The warning is the latest significant development in Ireland weather and is particularly important for Atlantic counties, where saturated ground, strong coastal winds and intense bursts of rain may increase the risk of surface water and flooding.
What the yellow rain warning means for travel
Met Éireann expects heavy spells of rain in the five counties, with reduced visibility and challenging conditions for motorists. Drivers should allow extra time, reduce speed and be prepared for standing water on roads, especially in rural areas and near streams or low-lying sections of the road network.
The conditions may also affect commuters using public transport. People travelling by road, rail or bus should check the latest operator information before setting out. Disruption can develop quickly when rainfall is intense, even where no major flooding has been reported.
Follow further Ireland weather and public services updates at DailyDigest as conditions develop.
Rain expected across Ireland on Thursday
Thursday is forecast to begin with widespread rain across the country. The rain is expected to become heavy in places before gradually becoming more concentrated in eastern and southeastern areas later in the day.
Atlantic coastal counties may experience freshening winds, while the heaviest downpours could produce temporary flooding in vulnerable locations. Met Éireann forecasts highest temperatures of between 12 and 16 degrees.
Coastal wind warning has expired
A separate yellow wind warning previously covered Donegal, Galway and Mayo. That alert included the possibility of wave overtopping in exposed coastal areas and particularly strong southwesterly winds along the Atlantic coast. It expired at 6pm on Wednesday.
Although the wind warning is no longer active, coastal communities and road users should remain alert to changing conditions while the rain warning continues. Atlantic coasts can see rapidly changing weather, particularly during spells of strong southwesterly wind and heavy rain.
What happens after the warning?
Rain and drizzle are expected to clear early on Thursday night. Friday should bring brighter conditions, with sunny spells and scattered showers. The weekend outlook is for mainly dry weather, with temperatures ranging from 11 to 14 degrees.
Forecast details can change as new observations become available. Residents should use official Met Éireann updates for the latest warning status, timing and county information.
How to prepare for heavy rain
People in the affected counties can take several simple steps before travelling:
- Check the latest weather warning and local authority updates.
- Allow additional time for journeys and avoid unnecessary travel during the heaviest rain.
- Keep away from flooded roads, even if the water appears shallow.
- Clear leaves and debris from drains around homes where it is safe to do so.
- Secure outdoor items that could be moved by strong winds.
- Keep mobile phones charged in case travel or local service updates are issued.
Frequently asked questions
Which counties are covered by the yellow rain warning?
The warning applies to Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo and Sligo.
What are the main risks?
Met Éireann has identified heavy rain, poor visibility, difficult travelling conditions and the possibility of localised flooding.
Will the whole country see rain?
Widespread rain is expected on Thursday morning, followed by heavy downpours in many areas. By evening, rain should become more confined to eastern and southeastern parts of Ireland.
What is the outlook for Friday and the weekend?
Rain and drizzle should clear early on Thursday night. Friday is expected to be bright with sunny spells and scattered showers, while the weekend outlook is mainly dry.
Why this weather update matters
This Breaking News Ireland update highlights the importance of checking conditions before travelling, particularly in counties exposed to Atlantic weather. Heavy rain can create dangerous road conditions and localised flooding with little notice.
For the latest Irish News, weather warnings and live updates, readers should rely on official information from Met Éireann and local authorities. The immediate forecast points to unsettled conditions on Thursday, followed by a gradual improvement into Friday and the weekend.
Takeaway: The status yellow rain warning for Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo and Sligo means residents and travellers should prepare for heavy rain, reduced visibility and possible localised flooding overnight and Thursday morning.
