Flood fears in Athlone as water levels to rise "for next 5 days"

Athlone Town Council has today (Monday) activated its Flood Emergency Response Plan amid concerns that water levels will continue to rise 'for the next five days, at least.'

Flooding at 'the lowest houses in Athlone' is seen as being possible by the end of this week.

The council's statement comes after a weekend in which another large urban centre on the River Shannon - Limerick - was affected by serious flooding.

The council in Athlone said a short section of roadway at McQuaid's Bridge on Deerpark Road has been closed, 'but there is a risk of further flooding.'

It added: 'The Council is in receipt of data from the ESB which predicts that water levels will continue to rise for the next 5 days, at least.

'This predictive model indicates that flooding of the lowest houses in Athlone could occur by the end of the week. However, this is by no means certain and the situation is being closely monitored.

'Athlone Town Council has activated its Flood Emergency Response Plan. As part of this plan, a range of precautionary measures are being implemented to reduce the risk of flooding and to provide assistance in the areas at most risk.

'The public are advised to be aware of the current risks associated with the River Shannon and to take whatever precautions you can if you live in a vulnerable area. Further, more detailed, advice is available on the Councils’ websites at www.athlone.ie and www.westmeathcoco.ie'

The council said it would issue another update on water levels this Thursday (February 6).