Dublin: Severe flooding across North Dublin has left hundreds of residents, including many members of the Indian community, without electricity and water, as adverse weather conditions continue to batter the region.
Residents of the One Three North apartment complex, managed by Vesta Living, were awakened shortly after midnight by urgent knocks on their doors, as neighbours and emergency responders urged them to move to safer areas within the building. Images shared on social media show the ground-level and basement car park completely submerged in floodwater.
Anita Raju, a ground-floor resident, described hearing water rushing into the basement “like a waterfall”. Firefighters at the scene reportedly warned residents not to enter the underground car park due to the risk of electric shock. Vehicles parked below were fully submerged, with many believed to be beyond repair.
“I spent my hard-earned money on that car,” Ms Raju said, expressing distress over the loss.
Families Facing Hardship
While some sections of the complex retained water supply, electricity and water were entirely cut off in adjoining blocks. Families with babies and young children are said to be struggling in freezing conditions. Residents have also reported that lifts are not operational, posing serious challenges for elderly and disabled occupants.
The management company has informed approximately 126 residents that electricity may not be restored until next week. Bottled water is being distributed to affected households, and temporary accommodation is being offered where necessary.
Vesta Living confirmed that access to the underground car park will only be permitted once water levels recede and safety assessments are completed. Residents have been advised to notify their insurance providers immediately regarding vehicle damage.
Livelihoods Impacted
Many of the submerged vehicles reportedly belong to taxi drivers, raising concerns about lost income and financial hardship. Residents estimate that cars were underwater for nearly 24 hours before pumping operations began.
Teams from Irish Water worked throughout the day to remove floodwater from the complex. However, significant damage has already occurred, with gym facilities and other ground-floor amenities also affected.
Local representatives have indicated that they will seek government assistance for affected residents. Meanwhile, Fingal County Council confirmed that crews have been deployed across North Dublin to mitigate further damage.
Flooding is believed to have been caused by a combination of heavy rainfall, overflowing riverbanks near Father Collins Park and burst water mains. With weather warnings for further heavy rain still in place, several parts of North Dublin remain at risk.
Residents have also pointed out that the area has experienced flooding in the past, calling for long-term solutions to prevent recurring damage and disruption.
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