COUNTY WEXFORD — Severe weather associated with Storm Claudia has wreaked havoc across Ireland’s eastern and southern counties overnight, resulting in significant localized flooding in Wexford and widespread power outages.
A total of 18 properties in Co Wexford were inundated by floodwaters. Half of these incidents occurred in Bridgetown, where a canal burst its banks, causing substantial damage to homes and at least one business premise. Five properties in the Gorey area were also hit following the overflow of the River Ounavarra.
- Tidal Alert: Wexford County Council crews and local services have responded to all incidents and are currently on standby for the high tide expected around 2:30 PM, with particular focus on the risk of further flooding in Enniscorthy approximately one hour later.
- Travel: Irish Rail has reported minor delays on the Rosslare line due to high water levels, though the line remains operational between Gorey and Enniscorthy.
Power Outages & National Response
ESB Networks confirmed that approximately 2,000 customers across the southern and eastern parts of the country remain without electricity due to high winds and heavy rainfall. Crews have been mobilized to restore power where conditions permit safe working.
National Director for Fire and Emergency Management, Keith Leonard, stated that Ireland has been “a bit lucky” overall, managing to avoid the worst-case scenarios predicted by the storm. While properties in Wexford suffered flooding, Mr. Leonard noted the primary impact across the midlands was surface water accumulation, with Co. Laois being “badly hit” in that regard.
In Portarlington, Co. Laois, the River Barrow peaked overnight, causing flooding in local roads and the People’s Park. However, thanks to proactive work by the council and local fire services, no homes or businesses in the town were damaged. Authorities attribute the flooding to the cumulative, heavy rainfall over several preceding days on already saturated ground.
