Kilkenny businesses urged to take precautions against flooding

Kilkenny business owners are being advised to take precautions against flooding with more high levels of rain expected before the end of July.

In recent weeks, both Patrick Street and John Street in Kilkenny City have been impacted by flash-flooding, damaging a section of foot path and impairing trade.

Met Eireann has cautioned that a wetter-than-normal July is set to continue with more localised flooding ahead as widespread rain and wind moves across the country from the west by the middle of this week.

Jonathan Hehir, Managing Director of Insuremyhouse.ie and Insuremyshop.ie commented:

"With more heavy rainfall and strong winds expected this week, it is essential for everyone to be mindful of the advisory note issued by Met Eireann and take whatever measures they can. Thousands of homes and businesses have been hit by adverse and extreme Irish weather in recent years and have felt the brunt of the financial hardship this damage can cause.

Each year, we witness the unfortunate reality of homes and businesses being destroyed by flooding, high winds, burst pipes, and other weather-related incidents, inflicting misery on those affected."

Local businesses are advised to:

- Check external walls and windows to ensure they are adequately water-resistant.

- In the event of a flood warning, it might be worth investing in sandbags and/or flood barriers to protect your property, particularly if you live in a flood-risk area.

- During more risky periods make sure to keep personal and valuable items as high above ground level as possible, and check where the water, gas and electricity mains are should you need to turn them off or on at any stage.

- Contact your insurer as soon as possible