Limerick residents advised to prepare for Storm Boelo

THE public are being encouraged to stay informed and take simple precautions this Bank Holiday weekend.

The weather will remain unsettled over the bank holiday weekend with the arrival of Storm Boelo, with impacts being felt until at least Monday.

Heavy rainfall forecast over the coming days and into the weekend, falling on already saturated ground, will lead to rapid runoff, rising river levels and an increased risk of surface water and river flooding.

High tides are expected over the weekend and combined with storm surge, strong winds and high waves, may lead to wave overtopping and coastal flooding in low lying area.

High tides may also impede river discharge, increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying estuarine areas.

The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM) are continuing to convene meetings of the National Severe Weather and Flood Coordination Group.

Speaking ahead of the arrival of Storm Boelo, the Head of the NDFEM, Keith Leonard, emphasised: “I would like to thank all the local teams around the country for the great work they carried out to mitigate the impacts of Storm Austen.

“Unfortunately, with Storm Boelo on the way, there will be no respite and local severe weather assessment teams are working all day today and through the weekend to mitigate and manage the impacts to come.

“Of particular concern is the challenge expected from extremely strong winds in the northwest. I would advise everyone to avoid coastal areas during the period of the weather warnings and heed all coastguard advice.

“We will also be closely monitoring tidal and river levels throughout the country for flooding dangers and are prepared to act promptly and effectively.”

Limerick City and County Council are asking the public to take note of the following:

Stay informed through Met Éireann and local authority channels and adjust your travel plans if necessary.

Motorists should be alert for fallen trees, debris and difficult driving conditions

Never attempt to drive through flooded roads.

Allow extra time for essential travel.

Expect surface water, and debris can lead to poor visibility.

Do not bypass Road Closed signs as the road ahead is unsafe, the damage may be hidden beneath water and you may be putting your life at risk.

Do not drive through floodwater, please turn back and use another route.

Check with transport operators when planning journeys.

Stay back from riverbanks, streams and canals as water levels may rise quickly.

Keep children and pets away from waterways and flooded areas.

Also do not park cars on gullies.

Monitor Met Éireann forecasts and/or visit Met Éireann - The Irish Meteorological Service for the most up to date information.

A reminder that the clocks will be changing this Sunday, October 25, so the nights will start getting darker.

Information is available across social media platforms and other news media sources.

ESB Networks is highlighting the dangers posed by fallen live wires and is advising the public and the emergency services to stay away from these fallen cables and to report such cases to it immediately.

ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999.

The public can monitor www.PowerCheck.ie. In regards to power restoration times.

For Uisce Éireann urgent water and wastewater issues call 1800 278 278, available 24 hours.

Reporting incidents to Limerick City and County Council:

Weather-related incidents affecting public roads or public areas can be reported on 061 556000 or 061417833, available 24 hours.

Where there is an immediate danger to life or public safety, call 112 or 999.

Further information on preparing for severe weather is available at gov.ie/BeEmergencyReady.