Limerick flood defences put in place as authorities ‘monitor’ Storm Erik

FLOOD defences are being put in place in Limerick as authorities monitor the track of Storm Erik.

A Status Yellow wind warning remains in effect for Limerick until 6am this Saturday and Limerick City and County Council said it was “continuing to monitor Storm Erik as it tracks across Ireland”.

Southwest to west winds will reach mean speeds of 50 to 65 km/h with gusts of 80 to 110 km/h.  Along exposed Atlantic coasts these values may be exceeded for a while and with very high seas this will give the risk of coastal flooding.

As a result, due to the predicted combination of high tides and adverse winds Limerick City and County Council is taking measures to protect areas along the Shannon Estuary.

As a proactive measure flood defences are being put in place in flood prone areas in Limerick city along the quays and Strands, Askeaton and Foynes.

A spokesperson said: “Limerick City and County Council will continue to monitor the situation during Storm Erik. During the period, the weather warning is in force, Limerick City and County Council is urging people to stay away from open water and the drive with caution on Limerick’s roads.”