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Best of 2017 – WATCH: Portarlington ‘cut in half’ as River Barrow bursts its banks

Portarlington is under siege from the River Barrow
Portarlington was under siege from the River Barrow

As flooding devasted Laois towns in late November, Portarlington became one of the final victims when the River Barrow burst its banks.

The river was nine feet higher than normal summer levels and the devastion made national headlines. 

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Portarlington has become the latest Laois town to be affected by flooding.

The River Barrow has burst its banks in the centre of the town.

RTE reporter Ciaran Mullooly is in the town and he says that it has been ‘paralysed’ by flood water.

The River Barrow is up 9 feet on normal summer levels.

Laois County Council say Botley Lane and Bog Road are closed.

Stop and go is currently in place on Patrick Street and the Council will continue to monitor the situation.

Roads crews, Civil Defence crews and Fire Service crews are in attendance.

Members of the public are requested to observe road closure signs, drive appropriately and not attempt to drive through flooded areas.

Colaiste Iosagain secondary school, St Patrick’s Boys National School and Presentation Primary School Portarlington have been closed on health and safety grounds as parents would not be able to safely access the schools.

SEE ALSO – Flood prevention works announced for Mountmellick and Portarlington rivers

The LaoisToday 2017 Annual is now on sale in bookshops and newsagents around the county – this is where you can buy it