Warning over fallen live power lines on Laois road

The public in Laois has been warned about live power lines on the Ballyfin to Mountmellick Road, with caution advised on main roads.

“Laois County Council, An Garda Siochana and HSE Crisis Management Team wish to advise that all priority routes in the county are deemed passable with care,” a statement from the Crisis Management Team said.

“Members of the public are urged to exercise caution at all times due to fallen debris and unstable trees,” it added.

The following route remains blocked:

•         Mountmellick to Ballyfin Rd. (R423) – Council crews have attended the site and we are awaiting ESB assistance due to live power lines.

Closures

Further short-term closures will occur throughout the day to deal with dangerous obstructions and potential obstructions.

“Since 6.30am this morning, over 30 incidents have been dealt with by the area staff and the fire service crews.

“The Council Housing maintenance crew are also dealing with incidents received and these will be dealt with on a priority basis,” the crisis team outlined.

The following is the update on Water and Wastewater outages in Laois.

1. Pallas Water Booster Station Back in operation. Supply being restored to areas affected.
2. The Strand Public Water Scheme – still out.
3. Coolenaugh Water and Wastewater Treatment Plants – still out.
4. Mountmellick WW Network – pumping stations at Connolly Street, Irishtown and Emmet Terrace. This issue will need to be monitored and emergency emptying may be required – all 3 pumping stations back on line.
5. Knocks Water and Drim Water – affecting Mountrath – Knocks Water Treatment Plant back in operation.
6. Arles Water and more than likely Wastewater Treatment Plant – still out.

The public is asked to note this may not be an exhaustive list of outages.

“The Crisis Management Team would like to acknowledge and thank the public for their on-going co-operation,” they state.

The local number for the Severe Weather Communication Centre is 1890837273.  If you require the assistance of the emergency services dial 999 or 112.

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