Storm Frank dumps renewed misery on Mayo

RENEWED rainfall in Co. Mayo early today (Wednesday) worsened an already serious flood situation in south Mayo, leading to road closures, mostly in the Cong, Cross and The Neale areas.

The R334 road between Ballinrobe and Headford was closed at two locations - The Neale and Cross. Diversions were in place.

Other roads closed by floodwater included the routes between Clonbur and Kilmaine (N84), the L1611 between Roundfort and Tuam, the Westport to Partry road, and and the route between Erriff and Liscarney in west Mayo.

The Westport to Newport road was described by Mayo County Council as flooded but passable.

Councillor Damian Ryan said Storm Frank, which was followed today (Wednesday) by Storm Gertrude, had posed a serious flood situation for a number of households in the Lough Mask area which had previously been unaffected.

In Ballina, the River Moy burst its banks at Bachelor's walk leading to flooding at Barrett Street, which is closed to traffic.

Local councillor Gerry Ginty said that the county council's use of a high-powered pump had avoided a potentially serious flowing situation along riverside areas in the town.

About 100 homes in west Mayo, mostly in the Westport and Achill areas, which were left without power at the height of the storm, are expected to be reconnected by the ESB by this evening.

Fire brigade units and civil defence teams have been on standby to lend assistance to council workers if required.