Image: Twitter/@CoynesGastropubA number of homes were evacuated.
Footage circulating on social media from Clifden in Connemara, Co. Galway shows just how frightening the force of flash flooding caused by heavy rain can be.
The Owenglin river which flows through Clifen, was subject to powerful surging in recent days, following a Status Yellow rainfall warning.
A number of homes in the area had to be evacuated, while schools closed early as the Owenglin rose to dangerous levels, as reported by the Irish Independent.
Drove into Clifden for some supplies. They’ve since closed all the roads. One elderly local said he has never seen anything like the flooding today. pic.twitter.com/uI6KjkyoSZ
— Jean Wallace (@jeanwallace17) September 2, 2020
Speaking on RTÉ News at One, local man Brian Hughes, who is the manager of the Abbeyglan Castle Hotel, said yesterday that he had "never seen the likes of it before".
"It's just terrible," he told the outlet. "Absolutely awful.
"We've never seen our local river flood like this ever. I've lived in Clifden my whole life, I've never seen the likes of it before.
"It's been the most horrendous year," he admitted. "We're doing our best to keep going and stay positive and try to look after customers, but it's so difficult."
Serious water in Clifden this morning after last nights rain. #Clifden #Connemara #HurricaneLaura #Ireland pic.twitter.com/qCjfxSJUzi
— Micheál Ó Cadhain ⭕️ CoynesGastropub ? #Connemara (@CoynesGastropub) September 2, 2020
Local Fine Gael councillor Eileen Mannion told the Irish Independent the speed and scale of the flooding was "unprecedented".
"It was totally unprecedented, never have the likes been seen here before. There was no warning at all, it was just so unexpected," Ms Mannion said.
"The water receded quickly but the lasting impact will be the damage to property. The water came up to the windows in some houses, so there are carpets and furniture destroyed."
