Galway Ranked 5th for Flood Risk; Claims Could Hit €335 Million

URGENT UPDATE: A new report has revealed that Galway is now ranked the 5th highest city in Ireland for flood risk, with potential insurance claims nearing €335 million if all at-risk addresses were to flood. This alarming finding comes from risk analysis firm Gamma Risk, which emphasizes the urgent need for awareness and preparedness in the region.

The report indicates that, in the event of an extreme weather occurrence, rebuild costs for 31 affected residential properties could reach approximately €17 million. This highlights the significant potential financial impact on homeowners and the local economy.

In a broader context, the analysis reveals that over 4% of all Irish homes constructed since 2020 are located in high-risk flood zones, with Dublin demonstrating the highest concentration of these vulnerable new dwellings. This trend raises serious concerns about future urban planning and disaster preparedness across Ireland.

Despite these risks, Richard Cantwell, Head of Sustainability at Gamma Risk, reassured the public that comparatively few new buildings in Galway are situated in flood-prone areas when stacked against other counties. However, the need for vigilance remains critical as climate change intensifies the threat of severe weather events.

Residents and local authorities are urged to take immediate action in light of these findings. The report serves as a wake-up call for communities to assess their vulnerability and implement effective flood management strategies.

As this story develops, stay tuned for more updates on the implications of this report and what measures local officials may take to mitigate the impact of flooding in Galway and beyond. This is a significant moment for both residents and policymakers as they confront the realities of climate change and urban safety.