The thaw has finally begun but event with the melting snow the work of the army and Civil Defence carries on.
Although motorists were back on the road, ice patches made driving conditions even more treacherous. The Bray Road at Loughlinstown is now flooded causing traffic back-ups and delays in the area.
Weather experts are predicting a gradual thaw which should reduce the risk of flooding. The government has made an appeal to people to assist local authorities in clearing drains to allow melted snow and grit to flow away freely.
Bray in County Wicklow is particularly susceptible to flooding and the River Dargle is a perpetual flood risk to homes. Civil Defence teams have been out in force filling sand bags and distributing them to areas at most risk. The Civil Defence have also organised alternative accommodation with bedding supplied by the Eastern Health Board in the event that homes need to be evacuated.
Three local Civil Defence wardens have earned special praise from the community in Wicklow. John Johnston, Torry Stringer and Larry Timmons have been commended for their efforts in delivering food to people isolated as a result of the heavy snow.
The army has taken delivery of six snow mobiles from Canada, a gift to the Irish government to help reach isolated areas.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 15 January 1982. The reporter is Caroline Erskine.
