Council warns floods may rise to 2009 levels in Athlone

Westmeath County Council says it is possible water levels in the Athlone area may approach the levels recorded in 2009 later this week.

Over the last 24 hours, the level has increased by around 100mm.

Data from the ESB suggests that by Saturday, they may rise to 450mm above the current level.

Westmeath County Council has activated its Flood Emergency Response Plan and its Interagency Response Committee has decided to request assistance from the Defence Forces and civil defence.

Watch Air Corps footage of large swathes of land around Athlone submerged following floodshttps://t.co/QZRra2FfTJ

— RTÉ News (@rtenews) December 8, 2015

Their priority is too help people protect their homes, provide transport and provide alternative accommondation, if required.