- ESB Networks crews have been restoring power throughout the day though restoration efforts have been difficult as Red weather alerts have been active from 6 am this morning and lasting until 1 am tomorrow morning across the Southwest
- As at 5.55 pm, approximately 38,000 electricity customers are without power across the country
- Some customers will remain without supply overnight. Estimated Restoration times are available at PowerCheck.ie
- Stay Safe, Stay Clear of fallen electricity wires. Report any damage to the network by calling 1800 372 999
- Public safety and the safety of our crews remain our priority and we will continue to work into the night when it is safe to do so
Tuesday, 7 December, 5.55 pm
Gale force winds associated with Storm Barra, with gusts of over 130 km/h, are continuing to cause damage to the electricity network, currently affecting more than 38,000 homes, farms and businesses across the country. The damage is mainly attributable to fallen trees on overhead lines as a result of the high winds. ESB Networks’ crews will continue to work late into the evening to restore power to those affected, where safe to do so, but unfortunately, some customers will remain without electricity overnight.
Since early morning and despite challenging conditions, ESB Networks have continued to restore power to customers across the country.
With the storm still crossing the country, more damage and interruptions to supply can be expected. ESB Networks reminds the public that if you come across fallen wires or damaged electricity network, never, ever touch or approach these as they may be LIVE and extremely dangerous.
All internal resources and contractors remain on alert and are responding to electricity outages once it is safe to do so. With a Red weather warning in the Southwest in effect until 9 pm tonight, and Co Clare until 1 am on Wednesday morning, some of our crews may not be mobilised on the ground until the worst of the severe weather passes.
We are advising all those impacted by outages that they should prepare to be without electricity overnight and into tomorrow, with some customers potentially without power beyond that. It is very important that any customers who use electrically powered medical devices should contact their healthcare professional to make alternative arrangements if necessary.
In addition to safety procedures associated with power restoration, crews continue to work under all national Covid-19 protocols with respect to hygiene, social distancing and PPE.
Customers without power can check for updates on when their fault is expected to be repaired at www.powercheck.ie
You can also check @ESBNetworks on Twitter for updates.
An Important Public Safety Message: If you come across fallen wires or damaged electricity network, never, ever touch or approach these as they may be LIVE and extremely dangerous. Please report any damage to electricity infrastructure by calling 1800 372 999. Customers should have their MPRN available to access recorded information specific to their location.
ESB Networks is reminding customers of the precautionary measures to take in the event of a power cut:
• Stay Safe, Stay Clear: Never approach broken lines or damaged poles, and keep children and animals away – report damage to ESB Networks at 1800 372 999 and listen to recorded messages carefully
• Turn off electric cookers, ovens, irons, etc. if electricity supply is lost
• Leave a light switched on so you know when power has been restored
• Take extra care if using candles, oil lamps or other naked flames
• Test smoke alarms with fresh batteries
• Ensure adequate ventilation if using gas heaters
A further update will follow later this evening.
ENDS/
Media queries to:
ESB Press Office: 01 7026009/087 2557186