River Shannon Levels Stabilising

Saturday, 29 February 2020 18:27

Storm Jorge is bringing heavy rain and strong winds.

Westmeath County Council says levels on the River Shannon has stabilised.

Flood defences have been put in the Carrickobrien, Golden Island and Canal Walk areas in Athlone.

Storm Jorge is bringing heavy rain and strong winds.

Minister for Flood Relief and Athlone's Kevin Boxer Moran is asking people to exercise caution, not to travel unless absolutely necessary, and above all stay safe all.

Status yellow wind and rainfall warnings are in place elsewhere, with snow and ice to fall in parts of the midlands and the north.

Offaly County Council is asking people to report severe weather related issues, such as fallen trees, severe flooding to 1890 750 750.

It says their crews will respond when safe to do so.

The following roads currently remain closed due to flooding:

· Botley Lane, Portarlington L50151 remains closed due to flooding; local diversions are in place;

· The Shannon Harbour to Banagher Road L7014-1 remains closed due to flooding;

· The Crank Road L-7017-1 in Banagher is closed due to flooding; local diversions are in place;

· The R438 at Anglers Rest on the Tipperary/Offaly border remains closed due to flooding. Motorists are advised to follow diversions in place.

Offaly County Council regrets any inconvenience caused by these essential closures. The Pollagh to Derrynagun Road L7020-6 was reopened earlier today.

Meanwhile in Laois, the Old Leighlin Road, Graiguecullen remains closed and the local authority is also warning of spot flooding.

Met Éireann has downgraded Storm Jorge to a Status Orange Wind Warning for Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo and Clare.

Severe winds will continue for the counties until midnight.

5,000 homes and businesses are without power in coastal regions, mainly along the west coast.

ESB crews are working to restore power and a majority should have their electricity restored tonight.

Speaking at a National Emergency Coordination Group meeting this afternoon, Marie McCarthy from the Health and Safety Authority asked people to keep a focus on personal safety: