Bomb squad investigating reports of twin devices in council building and theatre
ARMED police stormed a city centre after reports of two bombs left in public buildings were received.
Several buildings have been evacuated
Several buildings along The Mall, in Waterford, were forced to be evacuated and the road closed.
City Hall and the House of Waterford Crystal were reportedly shut.
There reports on Thursday afternoon that a bomb was left at the city council offices in Waterford, and the Royal Theatre next door.
Armed Gardaí - police - stormed the southern Irish town, and the bomb squad were drafted in to investigate the "security alert".
Local media reported they received an anonymous tip-off about the devices.
Reports of two devices have been received
WATERFORD The Mall closed both ways between jcts with Lombard St & Colbeck St due to incident. Expect delays https://t.co/r19oH1u8F2
— AA Roadwatch (@aaroadwatch) August 4, 2016
What's going on on the Mall in Waterford. Garda cars have both ends blocked off, and street cleared.
— John Collins (@HangBlaa) August 4, 2016
bomb scare in waterford mom come home !!!!!
— Laura Treacy (@lauratreacy_) August 4, 2016
Buildings in Waterford City evacuated due to ‘security incident’
The mayor of Waterford, Adam Wyse, said that initial reports indicated a bomb was due to explode at the theatre at 1pm, before the second detonated at 1.20pm.
He added the situation: "Appears to be under control."
Investigations into the devices are underway, as the Gardai conduct sweeps of the buildings.
Police have since reopened the road, prompting suggestions the scares were a hoax.
Europe is on high alert after a number of terror attacks rocked the continent in recent months.
More to follow . . .