Clean-up operations are under way in Newcastle and other parts of Co Down after the Shinma River burst its banks due to heavy rainfall from Storm Francis yesterday (Tuesday 25 August).
As BreakingNews.ie reports, as many as 300 homes were affected by the floodwaters which rose over one metre in some areas.
South Down MLA Colin McGrath said of the scene: “It is like a disaster zone.”
Respect to the lads from the Rivers Agency who are working in difficult conditions into the night in Newcastle to prevent flooding of nearby homes. pic.twitter.com/lnKygGfWOj
— Kevin Sharkey Pull Together - Stay Apart. (@tv_KevinSharkey) August 25, 2020
Flooding was particularly acute in the Bryansford Avenue area of Newcastle, along the north side of the Shinma River at the foot of the Mournes.
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service said a number of people were rescued from their homes as a specialist rescue team, flood response teams and local crews attended the situation.
Between midnight & 5pm today we have attended 28 flooding incidents across the Newcastle, Maghera, Draperstown & Cookstown areas. Working in challenging conditions, Firefighters, with the support of other agencies, rescued 37 people from flood water. #NotjustFires #SaferTogether pic.twitter.com/i5mXaPDwKC
— Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (@NIFRSOFFICIAL) August 25, 2020
Dozens of homes and businesses in Co Cork were also damaged by flooding and strong winds as the storm blew through the county early yesterday. The Irish Times has more on the story HERE.
