FLOODING UPDATE: At last, some hopeful news

There may be some short relief for people struggling with floods in Athlone in the coming days.

Westmeath County Council has this afternoon indicated that it expects the river levels not to rise and further between now and January 8, with the possibility of a slight fall.

The council statement said the analysis was based on an updated ESB forecast of river levels for the next five days

This forecast is based on current flows and takes account of Met Éireann’s rainfall predictions across the catchment.

The council over the weekend made a formal request to the Defence Forces for assistance and members of the army have been assisting local volunteers in maintaining and operating pumping stations throughout the town.

The county council is continuing to provide fuel for official council pumps and staff are working around the clock to assist.

The council also warned the public to exercise extreme caution in flooded areas and in the vicinity of the River Shannon.