The Defence Forces have been called in to help combat the affects of Storm Desmond tonight.

Red weather alerts remain in place with 60 millimetres predicted to fall in some parts - after up to 100 millimetres fell overnight in the north west.

Tonight members of the army are being sent to Cork and Kerry to help with flood defences and the transport of medical staff.

Officers will also be deployed to Athlone to assist in the transport of nurses in the coming hours.

Commandant Sean O'Faharta outlines what the army's been asked to assist in:

Meanwhile Gardaí are urging the public to stay off the roads tonight with driving conditions described as treacherous in many parts.

Crossmolina in Mayo is impassable and there is severe flooding in Galway, Donegal, Mayo, Sligo and others.

In addition, dozens of flights have been cancelled at airports around the country - including up to 50 in Dublin alone - as a result of Storm Desmond.

Meteorologist Pat Clarke says things will improve on Sunday:

Power has been restored to 12,000 properties across the country today.

Power lines where knocked in several locations and ESB crews have been out since first light in an attempt to restore supply.

Approximately 700 premises remain without electricity tonight.