Storm Ciara : Severe weather assessment team in Donegal meeting and ‘monitoring closely’

Donegal County Council’s Severe Weather Assessment Team has been meeting in response to Storm Ciara and are continuing to monitor local conditions closely as the storm progresses.

In a statement, the Council said today: “The public is being asked to be vigilant with regards to falling trees and debris. Heavy rain may overwhelm drains and gullies leading to surface flooding and property owners and occupiers are being asked to check drains and gullies for potential blockages.

“Sea surges are forecasted along the west coast of up to 1.0m and spring tides are also due from Saturday through to Wednesday. The public are being asked to be extra vigilant along the coast.

“The Irish Coast Guard is advising the public along coastal areas to ‘Stay back, stay high and stay dry’.

“The Council is asking property owners and occupiers of properties in areas susceptible to coastal flooding to be vigilant.

“Motorists are being asked to take extra care while driving during stormy weather and to be extra vigilant of cyclists and pedestrians and to be mindful of the risk of falling trees and debris.”

There is also a risk of power outages, the Council said, and the public are being asked to be prepared and to check on elderly or vulnerable family and neighbours to make sure they are safe and warm.

“Donegal County Councils Severe Weather Assessment Team will continue to monitor the situation and all Council Services are in a state of readiness as is the norm,” they stated.

The Council can be contacted during normal business hours on 074 91 53900 and in the event of an out of hours emergency the Council’s Road Service can be contacted on 074 91 72288. For emergencies requiring the assistance of the Fire Service call 999 or 112.

You can keep up to date on conditions by signing up for free alerts to your phone by registering at www.mapalerter.com/donegal or by following Donegal County Council on Facebook or on Twitter @DonegalCouncil.