Urgent Flood Alerts Issued for Dublin, Wexford, and Wicklow Today

UPDATE: Severe flooding risks loom as Met Éireann has issued an urgent Status Orange warning for heavy rain across Dublin, Wexford, and Wicklow starting at 2 PM today and lasting until 11 AM tomorrow. Authorities warn that significant rainfall, especially in high ground and exposed areas, could lead to hazardous travel conditions and widespread flooding.

The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM) has confirmed that flooding risks are not limited to the Orange alert regions. All areas of the country could experience severe conditions, with a Status Yellow warning impacting counties including Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, and Waterford from 9 AM today through 9 AM Saturday. Following this, Dublin and Wexford will shift from Yellow to Orange at 2 PM.

Authorities emphasize the urgency of the situation. “There is a significant risk of flooding in all areas,” said Keith Leonard, National Director of NDFEM. The heavy rainfall, compounded by recent wet weather, has left many rivers at capacity, increasing the threat of flooding.

Local authorities are on high alert, actively responding to potential impacts. Roads may close due to flooding, and the public is advised to avoid coastal areas and swollen riverbanks. Officials urge residents to heed safety advice and stay informed.

The NDFEM and Local Authorities have convened to strategize and prepare for the predicted rain and flooding. An online briefing from Met Éireann is set for 10 AM today, with follow-up meetings by the Severe Weather Alert Team.

In addition, a separate Status Yellow wind warning is effective from 12 PM today until 4 AM tomorrow across Dublin, Louth, Wexford, and Wicklow, further complicating conditions.

In Cork, the Bantry Flood Relief Scheme is now open to assist small businesses affected by earlier flooding, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the community.

Travelers in the affected regions are urged to exercise extreme caution. The Road Safety Authority advises drivers to slow down, maintain a safe distance, and avoid flooded roads. “Flooded roads can appear deceptively shallow,” a spokesperson warned, emphasizing the need for vigilance.

As conditions continue to develop, residents are reminded to stay updated with local emergency services and heed all warnings. The threat of flooding is imminent, and safety should be the top priority as these severe weather alerts unfold.

Stay safe, stay informed, and share this urgent update with your community.