Transport grinds to a halt as city shuts down

Thousands of commuters took hours to get home last night and some drivers had to abandon their cars in flood waters on roads.

Flood waters receded overnight but Gardai warned that flooding continued in a number of areas including Parnell Road, Harold's Cross Road, Wolfe Tone Quay, Belgard Road, Strawberry Beds and the N11 at UCD.

Numerous routes in and out of the city became impassible last night, with Irish Rail forced to cancel all DART services, the Luas Red Line was hit.

Two of the country's busiest motorways were impassable for a time. The heavy rain also caused delays to flights in and out of Dublin Airport.

The main arterial roads were open this morning after workers toiled overnight to clear flooded drains and roads.

"However driving conditions are challenging, motorists are asked to be aware of debris on the roads following last night's heavy rain," a Garda press office spokesman said.

Dublin City Council and South Dublin Co Council launched a major emergency plan last night. Wolfe Tone Quay is still closed today.

Irish Rail said services resumed on all routes this morning, but warned there would still be delays.

On DART's Northern Commuter and Maynooth services, customers were experiencing some delays of 20 to 30 minutes this morning with speed restrictions in some areas.

Spokesman Barry Kenny said there was also flood damage to signalling equipment.

"Bayside Station is closed due to a flooded station building, customers should use Sutton or Howth Junction stations," he said. Drumcondra Station was also closed. Luas was not operating between Balally and St Stephen's Green.

Bus Eireann said all services were scheduled to operate.