Communities braced for ‘worst floods in 20 years’

Vulnerable residents in Ireland's most at-risk areas are braced for the worst flooding in 20 years, with a record-breaking deluge expected in the coming 48 hours.  A Status Yellow rainfall warning is in place for Connacht, Donegal, Clare and Kerry, with 20-35 mm of additional rain expected on Wednesday. A Status Yellow wind warning has also been issued, with south to southwest expected to reach mean speeds of up to 65 km/h, with gusts up to 100 km/h possible during Wednesday. The Irish Army has been drafted in to help Clare County Council's flood defence efforts, with the Shannon flood risk said to be particularly bad. Speaking to RTE Radio One's Morning Ireland, Killaloe District Engineer Mr Hugh McGrath said:

"From listening to all the various sources looking at this data, we're preparing for higher levels. I'm not in a position to speak, but given the information from the various different bodies, I don't think we've seen the peak yet."

The Government has promised €15m in fast-tracked humanitarian aid to people whose homes and livelihoods were affected by Storm Desmond.