Flooding Hits Kilkenny: Tabu Tapas Closes Amid Rising Waters

UPDATE: Major flooding has struck Kilkenny, forcing the popular eatery Tabu Tapas in Thomastown to announce immediate closures. In a heartfelt video shared on social media, chef and co-owner Rodrigo Gonzalez alerted the community: “Heads up Thomastown, we are flooded.” The restaurant confirmed it will remain closed for lunch today, Saturday, September 30, 2023, while dinner service is under review.

As water levels continue to rise dramatically across Kilkenny, local authorities are urging residents and motorists to stay vigilant. Gardaí have advised the public to avoid specific areas where flooding has been reported, including Annamult Road in Bennettsbridge and Station Road/Marshes Street/The Quay in Thomastown. Currently, these roads remain passable, yet officials caution that conditions could worsen rapidly.

The situation is critical, with the Marshes Street Car Park now inaccessible. A Garda spokesperson emphasized, “Motorists should never drive into floods without knowing the depth. Remember that standing water of any depth may destroy an engine when taken into the intake. Please be wise.”

Despite the challenges, Gonzalez expressed concern for the community’s well-being, stating, “Hope everyone is staying safe and dry.” The rising waters are a direct result of recent heavy rainfall, leaving many Kilkenny residents on edge.

As the day progresses, all eyes will be on the weather forecasts and the restaurant’s updates regarding dinner service. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely and will provide further information as it becomes available.

In the meantime, local residents are encouraged to stay informed and share any images of flooding in their areas by sending them to [email protected].

Stay tuned for more developments on this urgent situation as we bring you the latest updates on Kilkenny’s flooding crisis.