The scene in The Big Meadow behind Deepark Road

Flood fears grow as water levels rise


There are growing fears that the Athlone region could be hit by flooding if stormy conditions of recent days continue.
Residents in areas such as Golden Island and Brick Island are becoming increasingly anxious after water levels rose consistently in recent days.
The Clonown Road has already become impassable, while Mick McQuaid’s bridge just off the Clonown Road and near The Park has also been closed due to flooding.
The Big Meadow is almost entirely underwater and residents in The Park, Parnell Square, Canal Walk, and Deerpark Road are also anxiously watching weather forecasts.
However, it’s understood Westmeath County Council and Athlone Town Council have not yet initiated any emergency or contingency plan.
Water levels still remain some 40 to 50cms below the peak flood levels of November 2009, but already the most low-lying and flood prone areas in the region are under serious threat.
The ESB is predicting that water levels in Lough Ree will reach 39m above ordinance datum by the end of this week, compared to 39.17 during the winter flood in December 1999, 39.19 in December 2006 and 39.67 in November 2009.