Bursting for trouble

>>> Most at-risk counties escape worst impact of latest round of rainfall >>Weather chiefs warn businesses & homes on coasts remain in peril

- BY ANITA McSORLEY and GRAINNE NI AODHA

THE country escaped the worst of a series of rain warnings yesterday - but experts warned the flooding threat hasn't gone away.

Despite respite from the torrents which lashed eastern areas recently, the National Emergency Coordination Group will monitor bursting river systems, sodden ground and mountain run off that could cause more misery.

Flooding is still a risk in coastal areas, particularly at high tide, and near swollen rivers.

Status Orange rain warnings for four counties yesterday expired without incident. Status Yellow alerts expired in nine other counties.

While there was some disruption to travel yesterday morning, in Dublin the DART between Greystones and Howth resumed after the track was submerged on Thursday.

The NECG had urged those people in affected counties who could work from home yesterday do so in order to reduce traffic.

A spokesman said: "While conditions are forecast to improve, surface flooding persists, and river flooding is still anticipated in some areas today and tomorrow.

"Local authorities, transport agencies and operators and critical service providers are coordinating response and cleanup operations.

"There are road closures and disruptions to transport in some areas. The public are urged to drive with care, allow for disruption when travelling and plan extra travel time.