Motorists in several counties across Ireland have been advised by the National Emergency Co-ordination Group (NECG) to work from home as heavy rainfall and potential flooding disrupt travel. The advice is intended to free up roads for emergency services responding to the ongoing weather event.
Widespread Rainfall and Warnings
A Status Orange rain warning is currently in effect for Dublin, Wicklow, Waterford, and Louth. Nine additional counties – Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Wexford, Tipperary, Cavan, Monaghan, and Meath – are under a Status Yellow rain warning. Met Éireann warns that the heavy rain is falling on already saturated ground, increasing the risk of localised and river flooding, as well as hazardous travel conditions.
Disruptions to Transport
The impact of the rainfall is already being felt across the transportation network. Iarnród Éireann has suspended DART services between Lansdowne Road and Dún Laoghaire due to flooding. The Dublin to Rosslare train line is also closed in two sections: between Greystones and Kilcoole due to debris, and between Enniscorthy and Wexford. Flooding and wave overtopping have been reported in coastal areas of Dublin, including Sandycove, and damage to a rail line near Dún Laoghaire has been observed.
Regional Concerns
Authorities are particularly concerned about the potential for significant flooding in County Louth, especially in the north of the county and on the Cooley Peninsula. David Hanratty, Director of Services for Louth County Council, stated that 30-60mm of rain is forecast for Cooley, a “significant step up” from rainfall experienced during Storm Chandra. The Fane, Glyde, and Dee rivers, along with their tributaries, are at risk of bursting their banks.
Local authorities in the southeast are actively preparing for potential flooding. Wicklow County Council is clearing drains and replenishing sandbag supplies. Waterford City and County Council is distributing sandbags and advising people to avoid coastal areas. Wexford County Council reports flooding in unexpected locations and notes that drainage systems are struggling to cope with the runoff.
Met Éireann senior forecaster Gerry Murphy has stated that “flooding is on the cards” and that rainfall amounts are high. He also indicated that the current low-pressure system impacting the south of the country is expected to persist, with further rain anticipated next week, suggesting continued unsettled weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are under a Status Orange rain warning?
A Status Orange rain warning is currently in effect for Dublin, Wicklow, Waterford, and Louth.
What is Iarnród Éireann’s current advice for commuters?
Iarnród Éireann has suspended DART services between Lansdowne Road and Dún Laoghaire and closed sections of the Dublin to Rosslare train line due to flooding and debris.
What is the NECG advising people to do?
The NECG is advising those in affected areas who can work from home to do so in order to free up roads for essential services and is warning of possible flooding.
As the rainfall continues and river levels rise, will residents in affected areas heed the warnings and take necessary precautions?
