European Flood Awareness System issues warning of flash flooding for Donegal

There is a possibility of heavy rain and flash flooding in several river catchment areas in Donegal. 

The European Flood Awareness System (EFAS) has issued a flash flooding warning for the border region in the following river systems: Glen, Eany, Eske, Owenea, Owentocker, Gweebarra, Crolly and Reelin.

The flood probability % is included in the attached image.

EFAS has also issued a heightened flash flooding warning for Clady, Finn, and Erne (Pettigo), Derg, Mourne (Northern Ireland) confluence with River Finn at Lifford into the Foyle.  The public is asked to take normal precautionary measures in these areas.

A status yellow rain warning for Donegal remains in effect until 8pm this evening. Impacts include widespread rain, which is expected to become heavy at times, leading to the possibility of localised flooding and difficult driving conditions.

A status yellow wind warning commences at 12 noon tomorrow, Friday, which will turn to a status orange wind warning at 2pm tomorrow afternoon until 10pm and revert to a status yellow until 12 noon on Saturday. 

These wind warnings will bring near gale force to gale force and very gusty southwest to west winds. Impacts include fallen trees, damage to power lines and possible power outages, very difficult travelling conditions and possible wave overtopping.  

A status yellow rain warning will come into effect tomorrow night at midnight and remain in place until midday on Saturday.

Additionally, a Status Red Marine warning is in place from Loop Head to Rossan Point to Fair Head  - “Southwest to west winds may reach violent storm force 11 at times” – valid from 2pm tomorrow until 9pm.

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Storm Amy will bring strong to near gale-force and gusty southwesterly winds, with impacts including difficult travel conditions, the displacement of debris and loose objects, and the possibility of fallen trees.  Trees are still in leaf at this time of the year, so there could be higher impacts from fallen trees and leaves blocking drains, causing localised flooding.

Donegal County Council’s Severe Weather Assessment Team have been monitoring the approaching weather pattern and will continue to monitor all local conditions as Storm Amy progresses.

Sandbags will be pre-deployed in a number of high-risk areas and further sandbags are ready to be deployed if required. Roads Service, Fire Service and Civil Defence crews are at a heightened state of readiness in the event of local responses being required during this storm event.

Donegal County 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/Housing Department can be contacted on 074 91 72288. For emergencies requiring the assistance of the Fire Service, call 999 or 112.