BREAKING: Driver escapes injury as tree falls on car in Athlone

A MAN escaped with minor injuries after a tree fell on his car on the outskirts of Athlone this morning.

THE N55 (Athlone to Ballymahon) road is closed due to a fallen tree near the White Gates, as a result of Storm Ali.

The driver of the car, a Mercedes, escaped with minor facial injuries.
Gardai are advising motorists to avoid the area and take alternative routes.
Westmeath County Council personnel, the fire service and gardai are at the scene. Gardai say the fallen tree was substantial in size and other trees may be damaged. As a result, the road is not expected to be re-opened for several hours, until the tree has been removed.

Motorists travelling in the direction of Athlone should drive via Arcadia, while those travelling in the direction of Ballymahon should go via Retreat or the Southern Station Road.
Meanwhile, there is also a tree down at the Derries on the Roscommon Road in Athlone. Traffic is restricted, but the road remains open. There is also a tree down on a by-road close to Clonark, just off the Athlone to Ballinasloe road. Access is restricted, but the road is open.
Gardaí are advising caution amid a 'status orange' wind warning due to Storm Ali.