More flooding expected in Laois as Status Yellow rain warning takes hold

People in Laois have been advised to remain alert as more flooding is anticipated in the coming days with a Status Yellow rain warning in affect until Friday, February 6. 

Laois is currently under a Status Yellow rain warning which will remain in place until Friday morning, February 6 at 9am. Met Éireann have warned that the county may experience further localised flooding and difficult travel conditions. 

Carlow, Kilkenny, Kildare, Wexford and Tipperary are also impacted by this warning. Cavan, Monaghan and Meath are under a Status Yellow warning as well, however this warning will be lifted by Thursday evening, February 5.

Dublin, Wicklow, Waterford and Louth are subject to a Status Orange warning which will also persist into Friday.

The National Emergency Co-ordination Group (NECG) and its related Subgroups met again on Thursday in response to the ongoing flooding situation across the country. 

The NECG has warned that there is a likelihood of more flooding on Thursday and Friday given the weather warnings in place.

The group said: "Today’s high spring tides, combined with strong winds and surge, may cause wave overtopping and coastal flooding in exposed areas. High coastal water levels will also impede river discharge, especially at times of high tide."

Significant rainfall is expected in areas already affected by the flooding in recent weeks.

The NECG emphasised that, due to river flows, heavy rain in one county can impact on flood-prone areas in another, even where less rain has fallen. The risk of flooding will continue into the weekend as upland flood peaks move down through the catchments.

The NECG said that the Irish Red Cross and Civil Defence are on the ground ready to offer support where needed, as well as local authorities.

Laois County Council are continuing to monitor water levels in the county. They have advised motorists to take care on the roads and any road closures will be notified to the public as soon as possible. 

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

People can monitor river levels at www.waterlevel.ie. The group have also advised people to call 999 or 112 if they are threatened by flood waters in their homes or vehicles and need immediate assistance.

With roads expected to be impacted, people who can work from home on Friday are being urged to do so.