Parts of Ireland prepare for likely floods

LIMERICK, Ireland, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Residents in parts of Ireland prepared Friday for the possibility of flooding due to heavy rain and rising Shannon River water levels, officials said.

The Irish Times reported while several homes in parts of Castleconnell and Montpelier, Ireland, have been evacuated as a precaution, flood defense efforts are under way from Athlunkard Bridge to Hampstead Park.

Meanwhile, sandbags are being deployed by the Limerick City Council to aid in flood prevention efforts in the area.

Emergency supplies of fodder are being distributed by the Irish Farmers' Association to help those impacted by prior flooding.

Ireland's Electricity Supply Board is monitoring the water levels of the Shannon River.

ESB officials said the rate in increase of the water levels has decreased to nearly 0.4 inches during the last 24 hours.

The Irish Times said despite the decrease, a flood warning along the lower parts of the river remains in effect.