Storm Frank to hit Ireland by lunchtime

Storm Frank is due to make landfall this lunchtime today - with efforts underway throughout the country to protect as many homes as possible.

Four weather warnings are in place.

Up to 70 millimetres of rain and winds of up to 120 kilometres an hour are expected in the South, West and North West.

It comes as the River Shannon reached it’s highest level this month overnight - with severe flooding expected if the water way breaches its banks.

Longford Cllr Gerard Farrell has said many homeowners are struggling to cope: “ Ah it’s bad and getting worse to be honest, the level of the Shannon is just too high for this time of the year.

“If the Shannon rises another foot or two there will be more families in dire straits.”

In the UK further weather warnings come into force later - as flood-hit areas are urged to prepare for more heavy rain.

Storm Frank's bringing another spell of wet and windy weather from this evening.

Extra troops remain on standby and, in those areas already affected, large numbers of volunteers have been on hand.