Urgent Flood Warnings Issued: Major Rainfall Hits Ireland Today

UPDATE: Ireland braces for severe flooding as Met Éireann has issued a Status Orange warning for heavy rain affecting Dublin, Wexford, and Wicklow starting at 2 PM today and lasting until 11 AM tomorrow. The warning comes amid forecasts of significant rainfall, particularly in high ground and exposed areas, raising alarms about possible flooding and hazardous travel conditions across the nation.

Authorities report that this is not limited to the Orange counties. A serious flood risk is anticipated “in all areas,” not just those under current alerts. A Status Yellow warning is also in effect for Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, and Waterford from 9 AM today until 9 AM Saturday, with additional alerts activating from 11 AM today for counties including Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Louth, Meath, and Wexford.

The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM) has convened emergency meetings to address the impending weather crisis. Keith Leonard, National Director of the NDFEM, urged the public to remain cautious and heed safety advisories. He stated there is a “significant risk of flooding in all areas” due to recent heavy rains saturating the ground and raising river levels.

In preparation, local authorities and Transport Infrastructure Ireland are mobilizing to respond to affected areas. Some roads may face closures, particularly in south and east Leinster and Munster, where flooding is likely to be most severe. Residents are advised to avoid coastal areas, swollen rivers, and canal paths during this stormy weather.

Public safety is a top concern. The Road Safety Authority emphasizes that drivers in the affected regions should exercise extreme caution, especially those in the Orange warning areas of Dublin, Wexford, and Wicklow. Motorists are reminded to slow down, increase their following distance, and avoid flooded roads, which can be deceptively deep.

As part of ongoing support, the Bantry Flood Relief Scheme has also been activated for small businesses impacted by recent flooding in Co. Cork. This assistance targets businesses with up to 20 employees, helping them recover from damages.

In response to these urgent warnings, Met Éireann is holding an online technical briefing at 10 AM today to provide further updates on the situation. The Severe Weather Alert Team plans to reconvene after the briefing to assess the latest developments and necessary actions.

As rainfall intensifies, all residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared, as flooding can have localized impacts. Follow updates from local emergency services and heed any guidance provided to ensure safety during this critical weather event.