Pic: Met Eireann

High winds to abate shortly ... reports of a mini tornado in Athleague


High winds and squally showers continue to buffet the midlands, but the wider Athlone area appears to have escaped the worst effect of Storm Darwin.

There were reports earlier this morning of a mini-tornado in Athleague, while a number of cars in the vicinity of Roscommon County Hospital also suffering wind-related damage.

There are also indications of some debris on roads in the South Roscommon area.

Water levels have risen in Lough Ree and the Shannon due to the storm, but are expected to subside again in its wake.

Met Eireann has indicated that the worst of the storm should pass by 7pm this evening.

No road closures in the area have been put in place.