Met Éireann forecasts heavy rain with flooding risk for southeast and Dublin

Heavy rainfall is expected to continue across Ireland in the coming days, with a particular focus on the east and southeast, including Dublin. This follows recent flooding from Storm Chandra and poses an ongoing risk to communities already grappling with saturated ground and high river levels.

Rising River Levels and Coastal Concerns

Several rivers – the Liffey, Nore, Barrow, and Slaney – are already experiencing very high water levels, and these are forecast to rise further through Thursday. Dublin City Council is closely monitoring river and coastal conditions and has taken precautionary measures, including keeping floodgates on the River Dodder closed and carparks at Sandymount and Clontarf closed to protect against wave overtopping.

Did You Know? The cycle lane at Clontarf, the Eden Quay boardwalk, and the flood gates along the River Dodder will remain closed until further notice as a precautionary measure.

Impacts and Preparations

Tánaiste Simon Harris stated on Wednesday morning that “significant rainfall” is anticipated from late Wednesday into Thursday and Friday. Senior ministers discussed interim measures on Tuesday night to mitigate potential impacts, and further engagement on flood warning systems is planned next week. The National Emergency Co-ordination Group met on Tuesday to assess the situation and prepare for further flooding this week.

While no weather warnings are currently in place, Met Éireann has issued a weather advisory for Ireland, warning of spells of heavy and persistent rainfall, particularly in southern and eastern counties. Flooding is likely due to a combination of saturated ground, high river levels, and high tides.

Expert Insight: The combination of already high river levels, saturated ground, and anticipated rainfall creates a complex and potentially dangerous situation. Even rainfall below warning thresholds could have significant impacts, and the risk of flooding may persist even after the rain stops due to delayed responses in river catchments.

Looking Ahead

Met Éireann’s Andrew Doran-Sherlock emphasized the importance of monitoring weather conditions and river gauge data, advising people to heed guidance from local authorities regarding river response times. While Sunday is currently forecast to be the driest day of the week, low pressure systems are expected to dominate the weather pattern into next week.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas are most at risk?

The east and southeast of Ireland, including Dublin, are most at risk, with particular concern for areas along the Liffey, Nore, Barrow, and Slaney rivers.

What is being done to prepare for further flooding?

The National Emergency Co-ordination Group is meeting to assess the situation, and local authorities are coordinating efforts and implementing interim measures. Dublin City Council is monitoring conditions and has closed certain coastal areas and infrastructure as a precaution.

What should people do to stay safe?

People are advised to follow the latest weather updates on Met Éireann’s website and track local river levels on the OPW’s Water Level website.

As communities brace for continued rainfall and potential flooding, what steps can individuals take to best prepare themselves and their neighbours for the challenges ahead?

Met Éireann forecasts heavy rain with flooding risk for southeast and Dublin – The Irish Times