Wexford County Council’s Emergency Management Team met this evening as the Council continued its preparations for Storm Barra, which is expected to impact County Wexford throughout tomorrow Tuesday. The storm is predicted to bring localised flooding to many areas. Flood barriers have already been erected in New Ross, Ballyhack and Arthurstown as a precaution, with Wexford Town likely to follow suit tomorrow morning.

Storm Barra is also predicted to bring very strong winds to Wexford during Tuesday and even into the early hours of Wednesday morning, with a strong likelihood of fallen trees in many areas and possible ESB outages also. The Council’s emergency response crews, including roads staff, fire services crews, Civil Defence etc are on standby and ready to deal with any emergency issues as the storm approaches.

Wexford County Council emphasises the following public safety messages:

• Do not touch any fallen wires – call ESB emergency number 1800 372 999

• Shelter in Place during the storm, avoid travel during the storm unless absolutely necessary

• Drivers to take care, avoid unnecessary journeys, and always expect the unexpected

• Any loose materials, Xmas lights etc. to be checked and secured where possible and when safe to do so

• Stay away from coastal areas

• Be vigilant and aware of potential for trees falling

• Temporary structures outside hotels, pubs etc. may become unstable

Fallen trees on roads, localised flooding and other storm issues can be reported to Wexford County Council during office hours on 053 919 6000 or outside office hours on 1890 666 777.

In the event of a significant emergency / threat to public safety, phone 999.