River levels across Carlow remain extremely high this morning, with the situation described as very serious by local authorities.
An update issued today (Sunday, 1st of February) says river levels across the county dropped slightly overnight, but both the River Barrow and the River Burren remain near record levels.
Carlow County Council says crews are continuing to pump floodwater and distribute sandbags in the most impacted areas, while rainfall and river levels are being closely monitored.
There’s a risk of further flooding over the coming days and into next week, as unsettled weather continues.
The National Emergency Coordination Group says the impacts of rainfall may persist through the weekend, with council crews remaining on standby to ease flooding where possible.
In Carlow town, the River Burren has levelled off after reaching very high levels yesterday, but officials say the threat has not passed.
Chief Executive of Carlow County Council, Cóilín O’Reilly, says water levels are being watched closely and residents should remain vigilant.
“The Barrow and the Burren are quite slow filling and slow emptying and the problem we’ve had is that the Barrow hasn’t had time to empty itself and relieve the river levels that are there
and so water keeps on coming into the barrow because it’s at a high level and the Burren flows into it and is backing up the Burren so it’s kind of a combination of factors all happening at once.” he said.
Meanwhile, households affected by flooding can now access Emergency Response Payments following Storm Chandra.
The Department of Social Protection has confirmed the payment is available to those directly impacted, including in Carlow and neighbouring counties.
Stage One of the scheme covers immediate essentials such as food, clothing and bedding, and is not income-tested. It remains open until Wednesday, the 4th of February.
Anyone in need of assistance is advised to contact the Community Welfare Service on 0818 60 70 80.
Further updates will be issued as conditions develop.
