Floods are a natural and inevitable part of life in Ireland. They are usually caused by a combination of events including overflowing river banks, coastal storms or blocked or overloaded drainage ditches. Numerous severe floods have occurred throughout the country in the last decade.
Floods only present a risk however when people, property, the environment and our cultural heritage can be potentially damaged. Through the right measures we can reduce their likelihood and limit their impacts.
Here are some facts which show just how dangerous a flood can be:
- As little as 300mm of fast-flowing water can move most cars off the road.
- Just 150mm of fast-flowing water can knock you off your feet.
- Scientists predict that climate change may lead to more frequent flooding in the future.
- 66% of flood deaths occur in vehicles, and most happen when drivers make a single, fatal mistake trying to navigate through flood waters.
- Floods are the most common and widespread of all natural disasters.
- One-third of flooded roads and bridges are so damaged by water that any vehicle trying to cross stands only a 50% chance of making it to the other side.
- Flood waters move fast enough to roll boulders, tear out trees and destroy bridges – a process known as scouring.
- Flood water is often contaminated by overflowing drains, animal carcasses and refuse.
- Electric currents can pass through flood water from downed power lines and cables.
- Flood water can move manhole and drain covers, creating invisible dangers.
- Because water displaces body weight, the deeper a person becomes immersed in floodwater, the less the person weighs, so the more difficult it is for them to remain upright.
Policy
The Office of Public Works (OPW) is co-ordinating Ireland’s whole of Government approach to flood risk management across three strategic and policy areas:
- Prevention: e.g. avoiding construction in flood-prone areas.
- Protection: e.g. taking feasible measures, both structural and non-structural, to reduce the likelihood and impact of floods.
- Preparedness: e.g. informing the public about dealing with flood risk and a flood.
Public Awareness
Individuals and communities can reduce the impact of a flood by taking the time to prepare in advance. The information on this page aims to provide practical help to homeowners and businesses that may be at risk from flooding. It also provides information on who can help during a flood event.
The Office of Emergency Planning runs an annual Be Winter Ready campaign which provides practical advice for coping during severe weather events. Information is available at winterready.ie and updates will be provided on X @emergencyIE during severe weather events.
The Office of Public Works has published flood maps that show areas at risk and these maps are available on our Flood Maps Viewer. Further information about the OPW and Flood Risk Management activities in Ireland is available at opw.ie.
Met Éireann provide a weather warnings alert service which is available on the Met Éireann app or through its website met.ie.
Riparian Owners
The OPW has developed a guidance document which is aimed at owners of land or property which is located on the banks of a watercourse – both natural and artificial. Such landowners are commonly termed riparian owners. Riparian owners need to be aware of their rights and responsibilities in relation to watercourses. This online guidance document provides some practical advice and assistance for the management of watercourses.
Living Near Watercourses - A Guide to the Rights and Responsibilities of Landowners
PDF, 462KB, 6 pages