Storm Claudia Causes Widespread Disruption Across Ireland

Dublin: Storm Claudia has caused extensive damage across coastal and upland areas of Ireland, leaving hundreds of homes and businesses without power. ESB crews are working urgently to restore electricity, with updates available on the PowerCheck website. According to Met Office forecasters, rain and strong winds are expected to continue through the morning.

Persistent rainfall that began in the Dublin area yesterday afternoon has yet to ease, leading to significant waterlogging in various parts of the city. Numerous trees have been brought down, including several in Wicklow, where the county council reported fallen trees on power lines in Keellog. Flooding and debris are causing blockages on multiple routes, and warning signs were placed at affected locations throughout the night.

The Water Authority has asked the public to report any disruptions to water supply or flooding from public waterways or drains.
An orange rain warning remains in effect for Dublin, Wicklow and Wexford from 12 p.m. Friday until 8 a.m. Saturday.
A yellow rain alert for Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Louth, Meath, Wexford, Wicklow, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford is in place until 9 a.m. today.
A yellow wind warning for Dublin, Louth, Meath, Wexford and Wicklow was also active until early Saturday in advance of Storm Claudia.

These alerts were issued due to anticipated flooding and hazardous travel conditions.

The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management convened with local authorities to coordinate the response. Director Keith Leonard urged residents in affected areas to remain indoors. He confirmed that outdoor crews, engineers and fire services have been fully deployed, adding that local authorities should prioritise areas with a history of flooding or blockages. Leonard advised road users to exercise extreme caution, reduce speed, and call 999 if they encounter emergencies.

IFA President Francie Gorman warned farmers—particularly in eastern and southern counties—to remain vigilant as flooding risks rise, urging extra care when managing livestock or carrying out essential farm work.

Both Dublin Bus and Dublin Airport have issued advisories, warning of potential delays and encouraging passengers to allow additional travel time. The airport advised travellers to check directly with their airlines for updates.

The Water Authority stated that it is well prepared for the situation, reminding the public to use the 24/7 emergency helpline for flooding issues stemming from public waterways or sewers. They also urged residents in vulnerable areas to conserve water in case supplies become disrupted. ESB Networks similarly encouraged the public to report damaged electrical infrastructure and warned people never to approach fallen power lines.

In East Cork, up to 40mm of rainfall is expected until Saturday morning. Cork County Council engineer Padraig Barrett confirmed that a Level One Flood Response Plan has been activated.

Dublin City Council reported that flood response teams have been on standby since early morning. Crews have been deployed since 4 a.m. and are monitoring water levels on the Dodder, Camac and Poddle rivers. Flood defence gates have already been installed along sections of the Dodder.

Reservoir levels upstream are being monitored in coordination with the ESB and the Water Authority. The council added that sandbags and pumps will be deployed where necessary.

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