Burst water main in Dublin causing extensive outages and flooding as more rainfall expected – The Irish Times
Severe weather from Storm Chandra continues to disrupt travel and daily life across Ireland, with widespread flooding, power outages, and transportation delays reported on Thursday. From burst water mains in Dublin to a boil-water notice in Tipperary, communities are grappling with the aftermath of the storm and bracing for further rainfall.
Widespread Disruption and Damage
Flooding and Travel Chaos
Significant flooding has impacted several areas. Fairview Park in Dublin is currently closed due to flooding from a burst water main, with diversions in place for traffic and disruptions to several Dublin Bus routes. Council workers are awaiting authorization from the Garda before reopening the main road connecting Clontarf and the city centre. In Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, businesses face potential closure for months following severe flooding of the Slaney River, according to the president of Wexford Chamber of Commerce, Ed Murphy.
Rail Services Severely Affected
Irish Rail is experiencing major disruption. The Dart line between Howth Junction and Malahide has reopened, but with ongoing delays. A fallen tree caused by subsidence closed the line earlier, and services are still experiencing delays of up to 20 minutes on some routes. The line between Newry and Belfast is also closed, with a bus transfer in operation. Rosslare line services remain suspended due to flooding in Enniscorthy, and access to the Enniscorthy station may be impossible for buses due to road flooding.
Water Supply Issues
A boil-water notice has been issued for 8,000 homes and businesses in Co. Tipperary, specifically in Newport town and surrounding areas including Birdhill, Ballina, Gortybrigane Ballinahinch, and Killoscully. This action was taken following consultation with the HSE due to a deterioration in raw water quality caused by extensive rainfall from Storm Chandra impacting the Newport public water supply. Uisce Éireann is working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. A burst water main at Fairview Park in Dublin is also causing widespread outages and flooding.
Ongoing Weather Concerns
Further Rainfall Expected
A status yellow rain alert remains in effect until midnight for counties Carlow, Dublin, Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow, and Waterford. Met Éireann warns of further localized flooding, river flooding, and difficult travel conditions. Persistent rain is expected to move into the southwest on Thursday afternoon and spread northeast, becoming heavy in places. Outbreaks of rain will continue Thursday night, particularly in Ulster and Leinster, before easing overnight. A heavy spell of rain is expected to spread from the south on Friday morning and afternoon, posing a further risk of localized flooding.
Impact on Residents
The storm has already had a devastating impact on some residents. Sarah Redmond, a mother of five in Kilternan, Co. Dublin, reported that her home has been “destroyed” by floodwaters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are currently under a boil-water notice?
8,000 homes and businesses in Co. Tipperary, including Newport town and surrounding areas of Birdhill, Ballina, Gortybrigane Ballinahinch, and Killoscully, are currently under a boil-water notice.
What is the status of Dart services?
The Dart line between Howth Junction and Malahide has reopened, but services are experiencing ongoing delays. Dart services are operating between Howth and Bray/Greystones until further notice.
What counties are under a status yellow rain alert?
Counties Carlow, Dublin, Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow, and Waterford are currently under a status yellow rain alert until midnight.
As communities begin the process of recovery, the potential for further disruption remains high. Will the ongoing rainfall exacerbate existing damage and lead to further challenges for affected areas?