ESB warns of flood risk along the Liffey

High water in 2016.

The ESB has warned that it may need to release extra water from the Poulaphuca Reservoir, with a consequent risk of flooding in some downstream areas, writes Brian Byrne. Levels in the reservoir have increased by almost two metres in recent days.

In a statement yesterday, ESB said that large volumes of rainfall over recent weeks, which have entered the reservoir, have been contained by the dam at Poulaphuca; otherwise, this water would have significantly increased water levels along the river, over and above what has already been experienced.  

However, since reservoir storage capacity is limited and based on current forecasts, some of these additional inflows may need to be released in the coming days. This could increase the risk of flooding along the River Liffey, particularly in the Clane and Newbridge areas. 

Local Authority Severe Weather Assessment Teams are monitoring the situation closely, ensuring resources are in place, that crews are on standby, preparing the necessary interventions, and will issue further communications. People with concerns about flooding should contact their local authorities for further information. 

The last time there were warnings of very high levels in the Liffey was in 2016. At that time, the council closed off pedestrian access from the market square to the riverbank.

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