Mallow hit by severe flooding as heavy rains continue

The town of Mallow in Co Cork has been hit by severe flooding this afternoon as heavy rains continue to batter many parts of the country.

The River Blackwater is rising quickly and sandbags have been placed on Bridge Street in the town.

AA Roadwatch says Mallow is impassable to traffic and motorists should avoid the area.

Flooding also hit the Co Limerick town of Newcastle West last night when the River Arra burst its banks, leaving the town submerged in up to six feet of water.

Around 1,500 households are still without electricity after an ESB station was inundated during the flood.