Warning: High flood risk for Westmeath!

The country is on high alert - level red - for rainfall as storm Desmond approaches.

Over the course of the next 48 hours, 30 - 50mm of rainfall is expected in the midlands region, and up to 70mm on higher ground.

While Westmeath does not fall into status red rainfall warning areas issued by Met Éireann, areas like Leitrim  - the gateway to the River Shannon, do.

The knock-on effect is that there is a possible risk of flooding on the western side of Westmeath, in Athlone and Lough Ree.

Weather expert Cathal Nolan says the western half of Westmeath is at risk of flooding over the course of the weekend.

“We will see a huge rise in the level of the Shannon over the next 48 hours as the feeder system is located in the areas of higher ground which could see anything up to 70mm of rainfall,” the climatologist told the Westmeath Examiner.

“The heavy rains are expected to start over the midlands around 9 - 10pm tonight and persistent rain will continue to fall throughout Friday night and on into tomorrow, before it finally starts to clear early on Sunday morning.”

Gale force winds

Wind speeds are already picking up. Gusts of 100 - 110kph, and up to 120kph, in the north west of the region are expected.

“The strongest winds will be experienced on Saturday afternoon as a cold front crosses the country.

“Temperatures are above average for this time of year, between 7 - 12 degrees, but it will get slightly colder on Saturday and into Sunday as the cold front approaches.

“The Lough Ree region is definitely at risk as are all areas feeding into the smaller river systems. The ground is already saturated and so we could see widespread flooding.”

Driving conditions will be difficult so give yourself extra time when travelling.