The National Emergency Co-ordination Group (NECG) and its related sub-groups met today (Wednesday, February 4) to continue to prepare for the risk of further flooding this week.

The NECG is warning that Ireland is entering another challenging phase over Thursday and Friday, with Status Orange and Yellow rain warnings in place.

Significant rainfall is expected in areas already affected by flooding over the last period.

The NECG has emphasised that, due to river flows, heavy rain in one county can impact on flood-prone areas in another even where less significant rain has fallen due to river flows.

Local authorities and other response agencies are briefed on the situation, monitoring the risks and are ready to take any actions necessary to protect communities, according to the NECG.

Already, they have been deploying and replenishing sandbags, clearing drains and carrying out other flood prevention works.

Local authority severe weather assessment teams are continuing to meet to assess the situation and respond, as needed, to protect communities, the NECG said.

Weather warnings

Met Éireann has issued a Status Orange rain warning for counties Wicklow and Waterford from 3:00a.m on Thursday to 3:00a.m on Friday.

There is also a Status Yellow rain warning for counties Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Louth, Wexford, Monaghan and Tipperary for the same period.

These spells of very heavy rain falling on already saturated ground - combined with high river levels and high tides - may lead to localised flooding, river flooding and difficult travel conditions.

High coastal water levels will impede river discharge and increase flood risk in low-lying coastal and areas near estuaries, especially at times of high tide.

High spring tides today and in the coming days, combined with strong winds and surge, may cause wave overtopping and coastal flooding in exposed areas.

Advice to the public

The public are urged to be alert for flooding as the situation can change very quickly.

The NECG said that even small amounts of rain could result in significant impacts in areas where river levels are high and/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.

Fire services, the Irish Coast Guard and emergency services are available to respond at all times and, where necessary, rescue people trapped by flooding. 

People are urged to check their local authority website and social media channels for information on road closures, flooding updates, and community alerts.

Local authorities are carrying out assessments on roads that were affected by the flooding and, some roads are being kept closed due to damage.

Civil defence remain on high alert and will set up rest centres if needed.

Those travelling are urged to allow for disruption and plan extra travel time.

When driving, reduce speed, expect surface water, debris and poor visibility.

Do not bypass ‘road closed’ signs or drive through floodwater; turn back and use another route, the NECG said.

Flooding may impact transport services, and the public is advised to check with operators before their journey.

Supports

An Emergency Response Payment is available to provide support to those living in properties directly affected by flooding.

An Emergency Humanitarian Flooding Scheme is open for small businesses and community, voluntary and sports organisations affected by flooding. 

In recognition of the severe impact of flooding on many small businesses and other organisations, the upper limit for payments under the scheme has been increased from €20,000 to €100,000 for the most impacted premises.

Eligibility for the scheme has also been extended to organisations of up to 50 employees.