Cautious optimism as all rainfall warnings for Kildare expired

All rainfall warnings for Kildare have now expired, with weather conditions over the coming days expected to be drier.

A statement from Kildare County Council (KCC) said: “Due to the continuous high levels in the River Liffey and Poulaphouca Reservoir, the necessary and controlled discharge of water by the ESB will continue over the coming days.” It was added that the discharge of water is informed by rain forecasts alongside information provided by KCC regarding monitored river levels.

KCC said that its’ crews “remain vigilant, working on the ground monitoring conditions on a 24/hr basis.” The statement noted that KCC’s Severe Weather Assessment Team “attended further meetings today of the National Emergency Coordination Group and relevant sub-groups to support the coordination of the ongoing response to flooding risk.” It was further detailed with regards to areas around the Liffey; “The pedestrian path to the Liffey Linear Park in Newbridge from the Athgarvan Road / The Gables entrance remains closed as does access to the pedestrian bridge over Butterstream, where it enters the River Liffey, due to the high-water level.” 

Speaking to the Kildare Nationalist, Newbridge Cllr Chris Pender complimented the work that KCC have carried out: “They were really proactive in terms of getting pumps out and stuff like that, getting sandbags out for residents. So I think we staved off the worst of it”.

Striking a cautious tone ahead of the weekend, Cllr Pender continued: “Now, the rain that’s happened over the last few days and is currently happening, and how that impacts on Poulaphouca, will tell us how okay we are going to be this weekend. We don’t know until then.” 

KCC’s statement also noted that the River Barrow is under active observation where river levels have fallen.

KCC repeated key messages that it has had for the public in recent times: to continue exercising caution near swollen rivers and riverbanks, to remain vigilant and adhere to all public safety advice, and that anyone with concerns around flooding is advised to contact KCC.

They included the following contact details:

The council’s out of hours emergency contacts are as follows:  • Kildare County Council - Out of hours - 1800 500 444  • Homeless Out of hours services operated by Peter McVerry Trust on behalf of Kildare County Council – 1800 804 307 (Saturday & Sunday 12pm -5pm)  

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