Storm Francis wreaked havoc on Ireland last night with south of country worst hit

The south of the country has been worst affected by Storm Francis, with Cork suffering widespread flooding and damage as a result of heavy rain and wind overnight.

Much of the country is dealing with the aftermath of Storm Francis this morning, particularly locals down in Cork who are facing some of the worst damage. Widespread flooding has been reported in Bantry, Brandon and Ring last night with business owners waking up this morning to assess the extent of the repairs needed.

Just back on their feet following the effects of Storm Ellen, many Cork businesses will be hit hard by the financial strain of dealing with another storm. A video shared by the Bantry Fire Brigade shows water gushing down the street with authorities confirming New Street, Main Street, Barrack Street and the Square have all been flooded.

Some local businesses remain optimistic, assuring the public that they will still reopen just at a slightly later time as they try to get a handle on things.

Cork County Council has asked people to report fallen trees, flooding and road damage to the relevant local area office during working hours or alternatively to contact the Emergency out of hours number. Reminding locals to "be prepared, be vigilant and be safe", authorities have urged the public never to assume that someone else will report the damage.

Drivers are being warned to exercise extreme caution on the roads this morning due to surface water and flooding across certain parts of the country. Cork motorists are advised that the N71 has been closed for a while just outside Rosscarbery with reports that the Fermoy/Lismore Road is also impassable as a result of the storm.

Header image via Twitter/Cork Safety Alerts

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