Write a commentNewry, Mourne and Down District Council activated it's emergency plan last week when some of the highest ever rainfall occurred in the Newry area resulting in extremely high river levels, which led to flooding in both urban and rural areas.
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In preparation for the impending severe weather, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council engaged at an early stage with the statutory agencies in order to ensure an overall emergency response was implemented.
Activating its Emergency Plan, the Council’s key role was supporting the flood response agencies and the community; this included collection and distribution of sandbags, cleaning and clearing of footpaths and traffic routes, interaction with Government agencies on flood incidents, flood risks and remedial actions. The Council also placed some of its emergency Rest Centres on standby in case any evacuations of flood affected areas were necessary.
The Council’s Chief Executive, Mr Liam Hannaway said, “The very close cooperation between the Council and Government Agencies ensured that resources were targeted efficiently and effectively to the areas of critical need. I wish to thank the drainage agencies, emergency services, elected members and the residents of the district who gave great support during the flood emergency.”
The Council finally advises that as there was significant impact in the district due to heavy rainfall, there is still flooding in fields, rivers and some roads. The Council would therefore draw the following important information to the attention of all its residents:
Road Closures/Traffic Information http://trafficwatchni.com/emergency-news
Flooding Advice www.nidirect.gov.uk/reporting-flooding - advice on what to do if your property floods.
To report a flood telephone: 0300 2000 100.
If lives are at risk then dial 999 and ask for the Fire and Rescue Service.
Note the Council assists agencies with the distribution of sandbags only in an emergency situation and does not supply sandbags to individuals and/or organisations.
