Action needed as lessons being learned the hard way on flooding

As well as a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, there’s a need for flood defences, protection coastal erosion, drainage of rivers and plans by local authorities to deal with the effects of climate change

An aerial view of Connolly Street leading up to Midleton Library, on the town's Main Street, during flooding during Storm Babet in October 2023. Picture: Guileen Coast Guard unit

Untypically mild weather in the first week of November gave a clear indication of the future temperatures we can expect due to global warming.

In parts of Cork, Kerry and Waterford, the mercury was hitting around 14 degrees C. On November 4, it got so hot in the middle of the day that we saw people casting off jackets and sweaters and going around in short sleeves. Even midges were out.