Dublin, Limerick, Meath and Louth Plagued by Flash Flooding: How Staycationers spend big in UK 2024 You Need To Know

Published on July 22, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

Flash flooding was reported in areas of Dublin, Limerick, Meath and Louth on Monday, July 21, due to heavy rainfall, leaving roads inundated and causing major travel disturbances.

More than 50mm of rainfall was measured in some areas of Dundalk and Ardee in Co Louth and parts of Dublin. The Status Orange warnings for rain and thunderstorms in Dublin, Meath, Louth, and Wicklow expired at 2pm, but the misery was widespread.

In Dublin, the Phoenix Park weather station saw 48mm of rain, well above the previous July record of 36mm set in 2023. The Dunsany, Meath weather station also recorded 55.4mm, which exceeded the station’s previous highest, which was set in 2013.

The Limerick City and County Council responded promptly to a flooding incident in Dromcollogher, deploying sandbags to protect vulnerable properties and utilizing water pumps supplied by local farmers. By 2am, the water levels had receded, and the roads were reopened by Monday morning.

Meanwhile, in Co. Fermanagh, footage posted online showed floodwaters in the Marble Arch Caves and Sligo Road in Enniskillen, which was reported as impassable by local authorities.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) urged caution, advising travelers to avoid flooded roads.

UK Tourism Sees Record Influx in 2024

Despite the weather disruptions in Ireland, the United Kingdom experienced a record number of inbound visitors in 2024. According to VisitBritain, there were 41.2 million inbound visits to the UK in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and marking a 9% increase from 2023. Visitors spent an estimated £31.5 billion, setting a new record for both metrics.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that overseas residents made an estimated 10.4 million visits to Great Britain in the third quarter of 2024, spending approximately £10.2 billion. In the fourth quarter, visits slightly decreased to 9.3 million, with spending at £7.4 billion.

Spotlight on Yorkshire: A Premier UK Destination

Among the UK’s diverse tourist destinations, Yorkshire stands out for its rich heritage, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. The region generates over £9 billion annually from tourism, supporting nearly 225,000 jobs. In 2024, York attracted approximately 6.9 million visitors, contributing £564 million to the local economy.

Top Attractions in Yorkshire:

• York Minster: A stunning Gothic cathedral and one of the largest of its kind in Northern Europe.
• The Shambles: A historic street with overhanging timber-framed buildings, dating back to the 14th century.
• National Railway Museum: The world’s largest railway museum, housing iconic locomotives and exhibits.
• York Castle Museum: Showcasing York’s history through immersive exhibits and collections.
• Yorkshire Dales National Park: Offering picturesque landscapes, hiking trails, and charming villages.

Travel Tips for Visitors:

• Weather: Yorkshire experiences a temperate maritime climate. Summers are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C. It’s advisable to carry a light raincoat or umbrella.
• Transportation: The region is well-connected by train services, especially from London King’s Cross to York. Local buses and car rentals are available for exploring rural areas.
• Accommodation: Options range from boutique hotels in York to countryside bed and breakfasts in the Yorkshire Dales.

Travel Advisory: Impact of Weather on Travel Plans

Travelers planning visits to Dublin, Limerick, Meath, or Louth are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and potential flooding alerts. The Met Éireann and PSNI provide timely information on weather conditions and road closures.

For those considering travel to the UK, particularly Yorkshire, it’s recommended to check local travel advisories and plan accordingly. The VisitBritain website offers comprehensive information on attractions, accommodations, and events across the UK.

Conclusion

Temporary disruption was caused in 2024 by flash flooding in parts of Ireland, but the wider UK tourism industry was resilient and buoyant. Thanks to its blend of history, culture and natural beauty, Yorkshire is continuing to pull in the punters.

Travellers are advised to prepare, consider weather conditions and browse the many attractions the UK has to offer.