ALERT: Warning issued amid risk of further heavy rainfall and flooding this week

The National Emergency Co-ordination Group (NECG) has warned the public to stay alert amid the risk of further flooding this week.

Spells of heavy and persistent rainfall are forecast to continue throughout the week, particularly in southern and eastern coastal counties.

Rain will fall on saturated ground where river levels are high with high tides expected this week. This may lead to further river, surface, and coastal flooding.

High spring tides over the coming days, combined with strong winds and surge, may cause wave overtopping, coastal and estuary flooding.

The NECG has warned that the situation could change very quickly and even small amounts of rain could result in significant impacts.

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This is particularly true in areas where river levels are high and/or where the ground is already saturated.

People are urged to check their local authority website and social media channels for information on road closures, flooding updates, and community alerts.

Local authorities are carrying out assessments on roads that were affected by the flooding and, in some instances, roads may need to be kept closed due to damage.

The NECG added that people should allow for disruption when travelling and plan extra travel time.

When driving, motorists are advised to reduce speed, expect surface water, debris and poor visibility.

They have also been advised not to bypass ‘Road Closed’ signs or drive through floodwater.

The group and its related subgroups met again on Tuesday to continue to assess the flooding situation and prepare for the risk of further flooding this week.

All relevant departments, agencies and local authorities say they are on alert for difficult conditions over the coming week that may result in flooding in some areas.

The NECG added that they are working to put in place measures to mitigate the impact of further rain, and to ensure readiness to respond to any flooding incidents.

If people are affected by flooding and in need of help, they are urged to contact their local authority.