All storm-hit homes back on power grid by late afternoon: ESB
About 15,000 homes have been hit by power cuts after severe storm-force winds swept across Ireland.
The worst-affected regions were the north and north-west with about 9,000 blackouts in Donegal and Sligo.
The ESB said another 2,500 power losses were reported in Midland counties and another 1,000 in the south.
ESB spokesman Brian Montayne said homes hit by cuts could expect to be back on the grid by late afternoon.
“But that very much depends on how safe it is for our crews,” he said. “Hopefully by lunchtime, but again it depends on how the weather pans out for the rest of the day.”
Met Eireann said northern counties were hit by damaging gusts of between 100kph and 140kph.
Winds have been strongest in Connacht and Ulster, where they will occasionally reach violent storm force 11 between Bloody Foreland and Fair Head.
They are expected to moderate as the day goes on.
Meanwhile, the Gardaí issued a traffic alert to exercise extreme caution in the face of storm-force winds and heavy rain today.
They warned that driving conditions will be difficult across the country and urged motorists to cut speed, be aware of hazards such as fallen trees, branches and other debris, particularly on minor roads.
Drivers have also been asked to turn their vehicles’ lights on.
Noel Brett, chief executive of the Road Safety Authority (RSA), also advised motorists to take care on the roads following the New Year break.
“Roads will be busy today with people getting back to work or travelling to airports and ports after the bank holiday weekend and festive season,” he said.
“I would ask each and every one of you to allow extra time to reach your destination, keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front and adjust your speed in windy or wet conditions.”
