Homes have been evacuated and schools in Clifden closed following severe flooding and further heavy rain expected. Gardaí have advised Scoil Mhuire and Clifden Community School to close with immediate effect due to deteriorating road conditions.

There will be a staggered release of students to ensure adherance to Covid-19 regulations.

The closure comes as a number of houses in the Clifden area have been evacuated by fire service water rescue teams after the Owenglen river overtopped following heavy rain.

Residents on the Ballyconneelly Road, in the Clifden Glen estate, and at the Station House Hotel have been evacuated. A number of properties in the centre of Clifden have also flooded and fire crews are in attendance.