Towns on high alert as rainstorm sweeps in

Swollen rivers and today’s rolling storm front have left many inland towns on high flood alert.

Up to 50mm of rain is expected to fall this weekend, feeding water systems that are already full. The places at high risk over the next 72 hours are in the midlands and along the main river banks.

Levels in the River Barrow slipped back after getting dangerously close to the banks on Wednesday. However, as last night’s rain poured down, warnings were again issued by Carlow and Kildare councils. There are particular concerns for Carlow Town and Athy.