Severe flooding in Downpatrick, County Down, has led to substantial damage to local businesses, with shop owner Nuala McCartan calling for urgent financial support as her stock is "just floating about." Although floodwaters have been cleared from the town center, high water levels in the River Quoile are preventing full drainage.

The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has halted pumping and is preparing for a major cleanup, which includes sandbag removal and power-washing. Road closures remain in place, and transportation is affected, with railway services between Portadown and Dundalk disrupted and bus substitutions provided.

The community has rallied together, with business owners and residents offering support. Political leaders, including Sinn Féin deputy leader Michelle O'Neill and Shadow Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn, are advocating for emergency relief funds similar to those provided in England.

The Department for Communities is issuing £1,000 emergency payments for homes affected by the floods, and the Northern Ireland Executive Office has formed a recovery sub-group to support affected businesses. The UK government is working with the Northern Ireland civil service to manage the response.