Dublin: Storm Bert has caused significant damage across Ireland, leaving thousands of households without power and causing widespread disruption. An orange wind warning remains in effect for County Donegal until this evening, along with a marine alert. Heavy rainfall accompanying the storm has exacerbated the situation.
Power Outages and Restoration Efforts
The storm initially left over 60,000 homes and businesses without electricity. While electricity has been restored in many areas, approximately 11,000 households remain without power, particularly in Donegal, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Cavan, Monaghan, Kerry, and Cork.
The ESB (Electricity Supply Board) is working to restore power in affected regions. However, unfavourable weather conditions continue to challenge these efforts. Residents have been urged to report downed power lines and outages by contacting 1800 372 999 and are strongly warned against touching any fallen power lines.
Flooding and Travel Disruptions
Flooding has caused significant damage in counties such as Donegal, Galway, Cork, and Kerry, with Killybegs in Donegal particularly hard hit. Numerous roads are blocked, stranding travellers in several areas.
The yellow wind warning, which had been in place for Cork, Kerry, Waterford, Arklow, Kilkenny, Wexford, and Wicklow, ended early this morning. However, a yellow wind warning for Leitrim, Mayo, and Sligo is now active from 8 a.m. today until 2 a.m. on Monday. Additional weather alerts may be issued as conditions evolve.
Public Transport Impact
Severe weather conditions have caused delays and cancellations in public transport. Some bus services in western counties have been suspended, and various train services are also experiencing delays. Transport for Ireland advises travellers to check the status of their chosen operators before departure.
Ongoing Storm Threat
The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management and Met Éireann are closely monitoring the situation. Emergency response teams are on standby to manage further developments.
Dr. Jennifer Keenahan, Associate Professor of Civil Engineering at University College Dublin, expressed concern about the storm’s potential for causing additional damage, particularly due to continued heavy rainfall and saturated ground conditions.
Storm Bert is expected to pose a threat throughout the weekend, with Met Éireann advising vigilance as conditions remain hazardous.
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