Rain warnings in force for eight counties with ‘very high’ risk of flooding – The Irish Times

Status yellow rain warnings are in effect for multiple counties in Ireland as heavy rainfall continues to cause localized and river flooding, and difficult travel conditions. The National Emergency Coordination Group (NECG) has warned of a “very high” risk of flooding, particularly in the east and southeast, with rainfall levels expected to be significantly above average this week.

Flooding Risk and Warnings

Met Éireann has issued status yellow rain warnings for counties Dublin, Louth, and Wicklow, remaining in force until 9pm Tuesday. Separate yellow warnings for Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Cork, and Waterford expired at 3pm Tuesday. The warnings indicate that further heavy rain on already saturated ground, combined with high river levels and high tides, will exacerbate flooding risks.

Rainfall is expected to be exceptionally high this week, with Wexford forecast to receive 260 percent of its usual amount, Dublin 263 percent, and Cork 254 percent. This follows a week where the south and southeast experienced four-and-a-half times the average rainfall.

Government Response and Preparations

Taoiseach Micheál Martin will meet with senior Ministers, the NECG, the Office of Public Works, and local authorities to discuss accelerating flood relief measures. Martin stated that all government departments and response agencies are focused on protecting properties and alleviating flooding. An incorporeal Cabinet meeting is scheduled to approve increased flood-relief payments of up to €100,000 per affected business.

Concerns have been raised regarding the lack of planning permission for flood measures first proposed in 2010 in Enniscorthy. Taoiseach Martin has promised interim flood defenses for the town immediately.

Safety Advice and Travel Disruptions

The NECG advises against driving through floodwater and bypassing “Road Closed” signs. ESB Networks has warned of the dangers of fallen live wires, with a contact number of 1800 372 999 and a website for power restoration updates: www.PowerCheck.ie. Uisce Éireann customers can find updates and contact information at 1800 278 278 or www.water.ie.

Potential for Freezing Conditions

Longer-term weather predictions suggest that the current wet conditions could be replaced by freezing weather and snow by mid-February, potentially due to a split in the polar vortex. A similar pattern in 2018 led to the “Beast from the East.”