This was a really tragic event which happened in a flash at the end of November.
Large parts of Mountmellick were completely flooded following freak rainfall.
Three rivers – Barrew, Blackwater and Owenass – all burst their banks at the same time causing havoc.
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Mountmellick is currently baring the worst of the floods as large parts of the town are under water, with families being evacuated from their homes.
The River Owenass in Irishtown has burst its banks and is causing chaos.
The MDA has been evacuated as a result and water is now gushing towards the town.
Our pictures show the playground which is completely submerged in water also.
Homes on Manor Road are currently being evacuated from their homes using boats.
“Currently 20 families in Mountmellick are being evacuated from their homes as a result of the flooding.
“Vehicular traffic should avoid the town for the moment,” a statement from Laois County Council confirmed.
Caution
“Extreme caution to be taken in the Mountmellick area due to flooding and avoided where possible,” the council advises
In the Clonaslee area, caution is also advised.
Alternative routes are to be taken if possible.
Roads crews, Civil Defence crews and Fire Service crews are in attendance.
The council has advised if you require the assistance of the emergency services, dial 999.
“Anyone requiring assistance from the emergency services can go direct to the Civil Defence premises on the Bay Rd. Mountmellick where the emergency response is being co-ordinated,” the Council added.
Motorists in Laois are being urged to exercise extreme caution by emergency services due to widespread flooding in the county.
Units of the fire service have been called out to a number of incidents in Laois already this morning.
A yellow status weather warning is in place, due to heavy rain and the resultant flooding.
The LaoisToday 2017 Annual is now on sale in bookshops and newsagents around the county – this is where you can buy it
