Communities throughout Munster and Leinster are facing major clean-up operations today after severe flash flooding of homes and businesses, writes Sorcha Crowley
Cork, Waterford and Kilkenny were the worst affected counties.
The Met Éireann weather station in Kilkenny recorded the highest rainfall there in five years with close to an inch of rain falling on Tuesday night.
Homes, schools and businesses were abandoned in the Cork suburbs.
The floods came as the Government announced a total review of national flooding policy.
Minister of State Mr Tom Parlon said the review would assess the extent of the flooding problem and clarify the responsibilities of the various agencies involved. Practical action would be recommended and priorities for spending identified.
He announced that the Government has approved another €5 million for humanitarian flood relief on top of the €8.5 million made available earlier this month.
He also warned insurers not to renege on their responsibilities. "It isn't on for insurance companies to say no to claimants", he said.
In Cork the suburbs of Blackpool and Togher were worst hit while in the county, Kinsale, Turners Cross, Carrigaline and Ballinspittle were also badly affected.
A platoon of soldiers from Collins Barracks in Cork was drafted in to transport the sick and elderly out of Blackpool and assist with sandbagging operations.
In Kilkenny city, John's Quay was entirely flooded.