Local authorities in coastal regions across Ireland have been put on high alert following a warning that unusually high tides this weekend could cause serious flooding in many areas.
The Irish Marine Institute says Ireland will experience a period of high tidal ranges this year, with the tides reaching some of their highest levels in 25 years around September 9th, October 8th and November 6th.
Dick Roche
Minister for Environment Dick Roche today urged a state of high alert and warned local authorities to clear all drains and have sandbags ready for local homes and businesses
The army, the Irish Coast Guard and Civil Defence are also understood to be on standby alert.
"However, we have no particular cause for worry unless we get storms and sea surges at the same time, and so far the weather forecasts remain favourable," Mr Roche added.
The particularly strong tides are the result of the combination of strong Equinox spring tides - tides with the greatest difference between high and low water which occur twice a year - and an 18.6-year "nodal cycle" linked to the tilt of the moon and the elliptic nature of its orbit around the Earth.
Mr Roche advised people to follow guidelines on the flooding.ie website run by the Office of Public Works, the state's lead agency on flooding.
If weather conditions do deteriorate, householders should also consider moving valuables, electrical equipment and furniture upstairs. Householders should keep drains around their own homes cleared.
Communities should also ensure that vulnerable persons living near them are assisted and prepared in the event of a flooding incident.
The Labour Party called for extra vigilance in Dublin areas previously flooded such as Ringsend and Drumcondra in 2002, the East Wall and North Strand in 2001.
"It is essential that the local authority, Dublin City Council, immediately begins the procedure of clearing all drains, gullies and shores so that surface water cannot pool and aggravate the situation," Labour front bench spokesman Joe Costello said.