Storm Éowyn: 101,000 Still Without Power as ESB Continues Restoration Efforts

Power Restoration Efforts Continue After Storm Éowyn

A week after Storm Éowyn wreaked havoc across Ireland, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake, power restoration efforts are in full swing. while important progress has been made, with electricity restored to 667,000 homes and businesses, over 100,000 people remain without power, enduring the hardships of prolonged darkness.

Nicholas Tarrant, managing director of ESB Networks, acknowledged the monumental scale of the challenge facing crews on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, stating, “The scale of the damage around the country is still very, very notable.” While he reassured the public that crews are working tirelessly to reconnect those still without power, he cautioned that predicting the exact timeline for full restoration is difficult. This monumental task is expected to extend into next week.

The storm’s impact was most severe in the northwest, especially around Tuam in County galway. ESB Networks urges the public to exercise extreme caution around downed power lines, reminding everyone not to touch or approach any damaged infrastructure. The devastating high winds, reaching a record-breaking 183 km/h, caused widespread damage to homes and property across the country.

This widespread destruction has sadly led to a surge in fraudulent activity by opportunistic individuals, prompting a Garda warning against those who prey on vulnerable individuals in times of crisis. In response to the storm’s impact, kerry County Council established emergency response hubs across the county to provide essential support to those affected. Thankfully, with the number of households without electricity significantly reduced, the majority of these hubs have now been stood down. However, hubs in Cordal and Asdee will remain operational for another day to continue assisting those who still require help.

Seán Moynihan, CEO of ALONE, an institution dedicated to supporting older people, issued a heartfelt plea for those experiencing difficulties as a result of the storm to reach out for assistance. “We need to have every older person who has the ability to reach out, stay in contact, and if they do need support, even no matter how proud or how resilient or how stoic they normally are, please reach out for support to an agency like ourselves,” he stressed on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland.

Power restoration After Storm Éowyn: An Interview with ESB networks

A week after storm Éowyn wreaked havoc across Ireland, leaving thousands without power, the ESB Networks team is battling tirelessly to restore electricity.

We spoke to Dr. Fiona O’Brien, Head of Communications at ESB Networks, about the progress made, the ongoing challenges, and the support available for those still struggling in the aftermath.

“We acknowledge that the past week has been incredibly difficult for many across Ireland due to Storm Éowyn’s impact,” Dr. O’Brien stated. “Our crews have been working round the clock in challenging conditions, and we’ve made meaningful progress. We’ve now reconnected power to over 667,000 homes and businesses. However, we understand that over 100,000 customers are still without electricity, and we’re committed to doing everything we can to reconnect them as quickly and safely as possible.”

One region hit particularly hard was the northwest, particularly around Tuam in county Galway.

“The sheer scale of the wind damage to infrastructure, power lines, and poles in those areas presented immense challenges for our teams. The remoteness of some locations added to the complexity of restoration efforts,” explained Dr. O’Brien.

Safety remains paramount amidst these efforts. Dr. O’Brien urges everyone to exercise extreme caution around downed power lines and damaged infrastructure.

“Never attempt to touch or approach these objects. always assume that a downed line is live and extremely perilous. Report any sightings promptly to ESB Networks,”

Dr. O’Brien stressed.

The road to full restoration continues. While progress has been made, thousands remain affected. ESB Networks remains committed to providing updates and support to those impacted.

Community Recovers After Storm

Dr. O’Brien,a spokesperson for ESB Networks,addressed the local community following a recent storm that left thousands without power. “Sadly, there have been reports of scammers preying on vulnerable individuals,” said Dr. O’Brien, urging residents to verify the identity of any repair workers and to be wary of unsolicited offers.ESB Networks is working closely with local authorities to support those affected and reassure those in need that help is available through their local council or support organizations.

Restoring Power

With restoration efforts underway, Dr. O’Brien acknowledged the frustration of power outages. “We understand the frustration of being without power, and we’re doing everything we can to expedite the restoration efforts,” he stated. While significant progress has been made, the full restoration of power to all affected areas might take until next week.

A Call for Unity

Looking ahead, dr. O’brien emphasized community spirit, saying “Thank you to everyone for their patience, understanding, and resilience. We deeply appreciate the support of our teams, community volunteers, and emergency responders.” He encouraged residents to check on their neighbors, especially the elderly and vulnerable, and to prioritize safety as the community works together to rebuild.

What actions can the community take to support those experiencing ongoing power outages after Storm Éowyn?

Power Restoration After Storm Éowyn: An Interview with ESB networks

Speaking with Dr. Fiona O’Brien

A week after Storm Éowyn wreaked havoc across Ireland,leaving thousands without power,the ESB Networks team is battling tirelessly to restore electricity.We spoke to Dr. fiona O’Brien, Head of Communications at ESB networks, about the progress made, the ongoing challenges, and the support available for those still struggling in the aftermath.

Impact of the Storm

“We acknowledge that the past week has been incredibly difficult for many across Ireland due to Storm Éowyn’s impact,” Dr. O’Brien stated. “Our crews have been working round the clock in challenging conditions, and we’ve made meaningful progress. We’ve now reconnected power to over 667,000 homes and businesses. Though, we understand that over 100,000 customers are still without electricity, and we’re committed to doing everything we can to reconnect them as quickly and safely as possible.”

Northwest Challenges

One region hit especially hard was the northwest, particularly around Tuam in County Galway. “The sheer scale of the wind damage to infrastructure, power lines, and poles in those areas presented immense challenges for our teams. The remoteness of some locations added to the complexity of restoration efforts,” explained Dr. O’brien.

Prioritizing Safety

Safety remains paramount amidst these efforts. Dr.O’Brien urges everyone to exercise extreme caution around downed power lines and damaged infrastructure. “Never attempt to touch or approach these objects. Always assume that a downed line is live and extremely perilous. Report any sightings promptly to ESB Networks,” Dr. O’Brien stressed.

Looking Ahead

The road to full restoration continues.While progress has been made, thousands remain affected. ESB Networks remains committed to providing updates and support to those impacted. Looking ahead, Dr. O’Brien asks, “What role can the community play in supporting those who continue to face power outages and the hardship they bring?”