Dublin: Galway has emerged as the worst-hit county in the aftermath of Storm Eowyn, which has been described as one of the most destructive storms in Irish history. Thousands of residents have been left without access to drinking water, electricity, and internet services, while widespread damage has disrupted daily life.
Devastation Across Counties
The storm wreaked havoc not only in Galway but also in Clare, Mayo, Kerry, Donegal, Sligo, Meath, Longford, and the Midlands.
Power Outages: The storm caused extensive electricity disruptions, leaving approximately 138,000 customers without power. The Energy Supply Board (ESB) is prioritising areas with water supply issues as part of its restoration efforts.
Mobile and Broadband Services: Vodafone reported that 14% of its mobile networks were impacted, with 26,000 telephone outages and 63,000 fixed broadband outages caused by power interruptions. Internet service was cut off for about 160,000 homes and businesses.
Water Supply Crisis
Thousands of Galway residents are facing a drinking water shortage after power to critical water treatment plants was disrupted.
Current Impact: Over 138,000 customers have already been left without water, with 100,000 homes directly affected due to the power outage at treatment plants.
Potential Escalation: The Water Authority has warned that up to 750,000 more homes could lose water supply if power is not restored promptly.
Reservoir Levels: Water levels in Galway’s reservoirs are critically low, and production has ceased in most treatment plants.
Residents have been urged to conserve water until services can be restored.
Tragic Fatality in Donegal
Storm Eowyn claimed its first life when a tree fell on a car in Feddyglass, Donegal, at approximately 5:30 AM yesterday.
The passenger in the vehicle was tragically killed. Gardaí, local authorities, and contractors worked together to recover the body and clear the debris.
Sinn Féin TD Pearse Doherty expressed condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, describing the incident as a tragic loss.
Cold Weather and Ice Warnings
In the wake of the storm, Ireland continues to experience bitterly cold conditions.
Daytime Temperatures: Expected to range between 4°C and 8°C.
Nighttime Temperatures: Could plummet to as low as -3°C.
Weather Alerts: Met Éireann has issued snow and ice warnings for several counties, advising caution during travel.
Storm Eowyn has left a trail of destruction and disruption across the country. As emergency services and utility providers work tirelessly to restore power and essential services, residents are urged to remain cautious and adhere to safety guidelines during this challenging time.
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