ALERT: Met Eireann warns of spot flooding as weather warning is issued for two counties

Met Eireann is warning of potential spot flooding and difficult travelling conditions in two counties as a band of heavy rain approaches the south coast of Ireland.

The national forecaster has issued status yellow rain warnings for Cork and Waterford, with both set to take effect later this Thursday.

The first warning - for Cork - will be valid from 1pm until 8am on Friday while the second - for Waterford - will be valid from 6pm on Thursday until 12 midday on Friday.

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According to Met Éireann, heavy spells of rain can  be expected at times with possible impacts including spot flooding, poor visibility and difficult travelling conditions.

In its latest forecast, it says the conditions across the country will become "blustery with moderate southeast winds increasing fresh to strong and gusty" this Thursday evening. Highest temperatures of 4 to 8 degrees.

"Friday will start off wet and blustery with widespread rain, heavy at times in the south with possible spot flooding. The rain will slowly clear from the west and southwest with sunny spells developing," adds the forecast.

Motorists are being urged to exercise caution if travelling while the weather warnings are in effect.