**Residents’ Frustration Grows Amid Repeated Flooding**
In light of recent extreme weather conditions, residents in Coalisland, County Tyrone, and Dundonald, County Down are grappling with the distressing consequences of severe flooding, which has become increasingly frequent. Independent Mid Ulster councillor Dan Kerr has expressed these residents’ sentiments of frustration and anxiety, emphasizing that their “houses and livelihoods are on the line” every time heavy rain is predicted. This sense of urgency is underscored by the ongoing clean-up efforts following the recent Storm Bert that struck the region.
Storm Bert triggered massive flooding over the past weekend, leading to the inundation of homes in Kings Row, Coalisland. Reports indicate that up to 15 residences were affected when water surged into their properties. Kerr pointed out that this incident marks the fourth occurrence of flooding in this particular street since 2015. As he noted, the repeated damage inflicted upon homes has engendered significant frustration among residents, who feel increasingly vulnerable as they face the threat of flooding with every incoming storm.
Equally impacted, approximately 18 homes on Park Avenue in Dundonald, another area affected by the recent storms, have sustained damage, prompting residents to voice their concerns about the persistent flooding in their neighborhood. The community’s outcry reflects a broader issue with effective flood management and preparedness, as many families contend with the aftermath of water damage even after the rains have ceased.
In a speaking engagement on BBC’s Good Morning Ulster, Mr. Kerr voiced his discontent, asserting, “This can’t happen again when there is heavy rain predicted, it’s unacceptable in the 21st Century.” Such remarks illustrate the growing impatience of residents who feel let down by authorities, particularly as they experience physical, emotional, and financial repercussions as a result of flooding. The damage to flooring and appliances alone has been devastating, with many residents left to endure the harsh reality of flooded homes in a matter of hours.
The councillor also highlighted the residents’ pleas for accountability from statutory agencies, as many believe they have been neglected in their previous requests for intervention. He indicated that recent inquiries regarding flooding in Kings Row promised to address the issue, but the outcomes have proven unsatisfactory thus far. Kerr emphasized the necessity for all relevant authorities to convene and formulate a comprehensive plan to mitigate this reoccurring problem, instilling the community with a sense of hope that they will be treated fairly and that their concerns will be heard.
Furthermore, an extensive amount of rainfall recorded during Storm Bert has raised alarms across Northern Ireland, with many regions experiencing over half a month’s worth of rain. In Dundonald, some residents found themselves trapped in their homes due to rising floodwaters, while vehicles have suffered damage as a result of the deluge. In response to the crisis, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has activated an emergency payment scheme aimed at providing relief to those affected.
Storm Bert’s impact was not limited to flooding, as landslides were reported in areas like the Glens of Antrim. The town of Killybegs in Donegal also emerged as one of the most severely affected areas, with dramatic visuals circulating online depicting inundated homes and businesses.
The consistent threats posed by extreme weather underscore the need for proactive and effective flood management strategies to prevent future incidents. The collective frustration voiced by the residents is a clarion call for both local and regional authorities to step up their efforts to combat the increasingly frequent occurrences of flooding and to ensure that communities can feel safe in their homes despite the unpredictable nature of climate change.
