Army mobilised to assist in evacuation after flooding in Laois

County Laois has been hit dramatically by extensive flooding in the wake of the wet weather. 

The army has been mobilised to assist with the evacuation process.

It is reported that up to 1,000 people are affected by flooding in the midlands county after a number of rivers burst their banks in the heavy rain. 

Teams assisting with the evacuation of people from their homes due to flooding in Mountmellick at the moment. pic.twitter.com/fw3AT4hdFN

— Laois Civil Defence (@LaoisCivilDefen) November 22, 2017

Homes have been flooded and roads were left completely impassible.

A number of families have been forced from their homes due to the rising waters.

A statement from Laois Country Council reads:

'Laois County Council wish to advise that due to the recent heavy rainfall the N80 is now closed as is many of the adjoining local roads including Ballyfin to Mountmellick Road, Irishtown, Wolfe Tone Street, Manor Lane are all impassible.'

'Currently 21 families in Mountmellick are being evacuated from their homes as a result of the flooding.'

Fire and rescue services have been working tirelessly to assist those impacted by the extensive flooding.