WEST Cork motorists are being warned to exercise extreme caution this morning as heavy rainfall brings significant surface water and serious flooding, making several key routes hazardous or impassable.

The region remains under a Met Éireann Status Yellow Rain Warning, but the impact on the ground is already proving severe, compounded by swollen river banks following days of persistent rain.

Local reports indicate that travel is becoming increasingly difficult across the West Cork area:

• Ardcahan Bridge outside Dunmanway is currently reported as impassable due to flooding, forcing drivers to find alternative routes.
• The stretch from Macroom towards Inchigeelagh and Ballingeary is experiencing substantial surface water and instances of spot flooding, creating treacherous driving conditions.
• Drimoleague to Skibbereen at Hawthorn is flooded so please be cautious on approach.
• Idle Bridge Ballineen impassable due to flooding.
• Ballyhilty is experiencing substantial surface water.
• Madore is flooded.

With rivers already at high levels, there is an ongoing concern that banks are ready to burst, threatening further disruption to the road network.

The public is strongly advised to adhere to safety guidelines:

• Do not attempt to drive through floodwaters.
• Reduce speed and increase braking distance when travelling through areas affected by surface water.
• Check local authority and traffic alert channels before beginning any journey.

The Status Yellow warning is in place as heavy spells of rain continue to fall, and conditions are likely to remain challenging until the weather system passes.

Local emergency services are on standby.