National Directorate for Fire & Emergency Management statement on current weather warnings

The National Directorate for Fire & Emergency Management (NDFEM) this afternoon convened a meeting of Local Authorities, Met Éireann, relevant Government departments, state agencies and utility providers to prepare for the incoming heavy rain and associated flooding risk.

Spells of heavy rain and strong winds are forecast tonight and tomorrow (Wednesday) and there is the possibility of some wintry precipitation in the northwest and over high ground in Wicklow.

Following recent rainfall, many rivers remain close to or above bank-full levels. As heavy rainfall is expected tonight and throughout Wednesday – with the highest totals forecast for the south, east, northeast, and midlands – this additional rainfall may trigger further flooding, given current ground and river conditions.

Flooding is a risk across the country due to the current conditions. Whether or not a yellow rain warning is in place for a county, all areas will remain at risk of flooding.

The public are urged to be alert for flooding as the situation can change very quickly and even small amounts of rain could result in significant impacts in areas where river levels are high, or where the ground is already saturated. Where people are threatened by flood waters in their homes or vehicles, they should call 999 / 112 for immediate assistance.

Local Authorities and Transport Infrastructure Ireland will be active and responding in the affected areas, and the need may arise to close some roads due to flooding. All motorists should follow all traffic instructions put in place. Driving during heavy rain is a significant risk, and motorists should take considerable care when travelling, remaining conscious of the road conditions at all times.

The NDFEM will continue to liaise with Met Éireann, local authorities and all key stakeholders to monitor the situation to coordinate the most appropriate response

Met Éireann weather warnings currently in place:

Status Yellow Wind warning for Wexford, Wicklow, Dublin, Meath, Louth

Valid: 23:00 Tuesday to 13:00 Wednesday

Status Yellow Rain warning for Leinster, Cavan, Monaghan, Cork, Tipperary, Waterford

Valid: 23:00 Tuesday to 23:00 Wednesday

Status Yellow - Rain/Snow warning for Donegal

Valid: 02:00 Wednesday to 14:00 Wednesday

Public safety advice

• Monitor Met Éireann forecasts over the next 24 to 36 hours – conditions may change quickly. Visit https://www.met.ie/ for the most up to date information. Information is also available across the Met Éireann App, social media platforms (@meteireann) and other news media sources.
• Check Local Authorities websites and social media channels for information on road closures, flooding updates, and community alerts.
• Do not bypass Road Closed signs – the road ahead is unsafe, the damage may be hidden beneath water, and you may be putting your life at risk.
• Do not drive through floodwater – turn back and use another route.
• Allow for disruption when commuting over the coming days.
• Plan extra travel time and reduce speed.
• Expect surface water, debris and poor visibility.
• Check with Transport Operators when planning journeys
• Stay back from riverbanks, streams and canals – water levels may rise quickly.
• Keep children and pets away from waterways and flooded areas.
• Keep away from coastal edges, harbours, piers and low-lying promenades during high tide.
• The Irish Coast Guard advice remains: “Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry.”
• Check in with neighbours, older people or anyone who may need assistance in case conditions worsen.
• ESB Networks is highlighting the dangers posed by fallen live wires and is advising the public and the emergency services to stay away from these fallen cables and to report such cases to it immediately. ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999. The public can monitor www.PowerCheck.ie. in regards to power restoration times.
• Uisce Éireann customers can check the website and social media channels for updates and to get in touch with any issues or concerns via their 24/7 customer care centre at 1800 278 278. The public can also sign up online to their free text alert system to get regular updates about their local supplies - see www.water.ie.”

Ends