Worst may be over but coastal areas still face flooding threat

A WEATHER warning of flood risk in coastal areas remains in place until noon today.

A WEATHER warning of flood risk in coastal areas remains in place until noon today.

However, Met Éireann says the worst of the conditions appears to be abating and today will become mainly dry by afternoon with good sunny spells. Northeasterly winds will be moderate to fresh, and will ease towards evening.

Driving conditions were difficult throughout the country yesterday after heavy rain and high winds lashed the country on Sunday night.

Localised flooding, surface water and fallen leaves and branches made some roads treacherous. Drivers were advised to slow down, keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front and to use dipped headlights.

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In Co Louth, there was no access to Ardee via Stoney Lane at the Johns Street junction in Curraghbeg for a number of hours due to flooding.

Scotchmans Road in Sligo has reopened after being flooded between Bundoran Road and Rosses Point Road.

In the North, Slievegrane Road in Downpatrick, Ardkill Road in Derry and Ardigon Road in Killyleagh were all closed due to flooding.

In Dublin, high tide passed at midnight and at midday yesterday with no major flooding in low-lying areas. There were some local incidences of water breaching the walls at the wooden bridge leading to the Bull Island in Clontarf and at Marine Road in Sandymount.

Car parks at the seafront will remain closed until midday today.

Seven roads in Sandymount are also closed until further notice. They are: St John’s Road East; Gilford Road; Gilford Avenue; Lea Road; Newgrove Avenue; Seafort Avenue and Marine Drive.

Galway City Council says high winds and high tides are forecast for today. The council has urged members of the public to exercise caution while walking on beaches, quays and promenades.

The bad weather caused the cancellation of the 8.45am and 2.30pm Irish Ferries Swift sailings between Dublin and Holyhead.

Met Éireann is predicting further heavy showers today with strong winds which, combined with high tides and low pressure, creates the highest risk time. Dublin will be particularly vulnerable.

Sandbags have been placed in low-lying risk areas.

Cork escaped flooding with high tide in the morning and evening passing off without incident as the river Lee stayed within the quay walls, despite fears of flooding.