Whole-of-government recovery response continues following Storm Éowyn

For the latest information please go to gov.ie/StormResponse.

EU generators to help restore water, phone and broadband.

The National Emergency Co-ordination Group (NECG) met today (Wednesday) to continue to coordinate and concentrate efforts to restore power, water, telecommunications and other services to homes, farms and businesses following Storm Éowyn.

Supported by government departments and agencies on the NECG, ESB Networks continues to mobilise all available resources to restore power connections as soon as possible.

Power has been restored to 635,000 customers; however some 133,000 homes, farms and businesses remain without supply.

Telecommunications and water supplies have also been significantly affected. In most cases, this is due to knock-on effects of power outages, with assessments continuing.

A key focus for Government, the NECG, and all organisations involved is to find ways to support power restoration works that will make the most impact in terms of restoring water, communications and other services.

In addition, Ireland is expecting delivery of several large-capacity generators, following a request under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.

The generators from Poland and Denmark will be deployed to support Uisce Éireann and telecommunications operators to bring water, phone and broadband services to homes and businesses.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne said:

Chair of the NECG Keith Leonard said:

NECG Sub-Groups will meet again later today to continue to progress work in their respective areas.

The full NECG will meet again tomorrow, and work will continue throughout the day and week to coordinate the response and recovery.

133,000 homes, farms and businesses remain without power following Storm Éowyn. ESB Networks is mobilising all available resources to restore power to homes, farms and businesses as soon as possible. Already power has been restored to 635,000 customers and intensive work will continue.

ESB Networks have updated the PowerCheck website with the expected restoration times: this shows that by Friday 31 January, the vast majority of those impacted by Storm Éowyn will have their supply restored. After this the remaining customers, approximately 100,000, will progressively have their supply restored over the course of the following week.

Estimated restoration times will continue to be updated as the restoration continues to progress.

Skilled technicians from counterparts in Austria, Finland and Great Britain are now on the ground in the worst impacted areas. Further support is arriving from France this afternoon, this is in addition to crews due to arrive from the Netherlands over the coming days. They are supporting local ESB Networks crews and partner contactors in the worst impacted areas, who have been bolstered by colleagues from the south and east of the country, as well as skilled retirees. The ESB customer contact centre has also doubled its resources.

An important Public Safety Message: ESB Networks reminds the public to Stay Safe, Stay Clear of fallen electricity wires. If you come across fallen wires or damaged electricity network, never, ever touch or approach these as they are LIVE and extremely dangerous. Please report any damage to electricity infrastructure by calling 1800 372 999.

Approximately 7,500 premises are without water as of lunchtime today. Over 180,000 customers have had their water supply restored since the storm.

Water supply returned to additional 11,000 people since yesterday:

• 7,500 premises without water serving 20,000 people
• generators now in place at most sites where they can be connected
• alternative water supplies and tankers in place in 50 locations across the country

Uisce Éireann have now deployed and installed generators at almost all of the plants, pumping stations and reservoirs where it is feasible to do so. A final few are being added today to further reduce the number of customers without water. Having done so, Uisce Éireann are continuing to work closely with the ESB to prioritise the restoration of electricity supply in the remaining locations.

In areas where water has not yet returned, alternative water supplies are being provided to support local communities and Uisce Éireann are tankering water to treated water reservoirs to resupply smaller schemes. Uisce Éireann are also liaising with Local Coordination Groups and Emergency Response Hubs in areas where these have been established.

Updates on the location of these alternative water supplies and other supply updates are available on the Uisce Éireann website and customers can also contact Uisce Éireann directly on 1800 278 278.

The estimated effect of Storm Éowyn on the national telecoms userbase was the largest in Comreg’s recording history but repair and restoration work is now showing significant progress in restoring connectivity and several fixed service operator networks have been returned to normal service levels.

As of 10am (Wednesday 29 January):

• 2% of fixed service users are without services
• 9% of mobile service users are experiencing some level of degradation of service

The most impacted areas continue to be the north and west of the country.

Those affected by Mobile Service failures are unlikely to experience complete disconnection. They may experience degradation on data and voice; text messaging is much less likely to be affected.

Calls to emergency services utilise any available network, regardless of operator subscription. These are expected to continue to function as normal nationwide. Restoration of Mobile Service will focus on voice and SMS initially; data services may be slower to return. ComReg (Commission for Communications Regulation) is monitoring the situation and liaising with operators; further updates will be provided over the coming days.

Local authorities are coordinating a local level humanitarian assistance response to the needs of people who have been significantly impacted by the storm. Local Coordination Groups are now in place in 19 local authority areas.

More than 280 Emergency Response Hubs have been set up in the counties most affected by service outages. Emergency Response Hubs are assisting people with basic needs such as water, hot food, phone charging, broadband access and shower facilities.

A key focus is on ensuring the welfare of vulnerable or isolated people. A number of organisations including Uisce Éireann, ESB Networks, An Post, An Garda Síochána, HSE and Local Link are checking in on vulnerable people and any concerns will be raised through the Local Coordination Group for follow up.

Alongside this, the public are strongly encouraged to check in on neighbours, family and friends and to report any concerns to Gardaí.

Local Coordination Groups are now in place in 19 Local Authority Areas – Cavan, Clare, Cork County, Donegal, Galway County, Kerry, Laois, Leitrim, Limerick City and County, Longford, Mayo, Meath, Monaghan, Offaly, Roscommon, Sligo, Westmeath, Wexford and Wicklow.

There are 285 Emergency Response Hubs established, including community led hubs with local authority financial and administrative supports:

• Cavan – 29 hubs
• Clare – 7 hubs
• Donegal – 27 hubs
• Galway City – 3 hubs
• Galway County – 38 hubs
• Kerry – 9 hubs
• Kildare – 1 hub
• Laois – 2 hubs
• Leitrim – 16 hubs
• Limerick City and County – 1 hub
• Longford – 5 hubs
• Mayo – 36 hubs
• Meath – 19 hubs
• Monaghan – 15 hubs
• Offaly – 10 hubs
• Roscommon – 24 hubs
• Sligo – 8 hubs
• Westmeath - 5 hub
• Wexford – 30 hubs

Further details of where hubs are located are available at www.gov.ie/StormResponse.

Local authorities will communicate about all supports being made available on their websites, social media and via local media.

The Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary has confirmed that the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme is available to provide support to those living in properties directly affected by Storm Éowyn.

The Humanitarian Assistance Scheme mitigates hardship by providing income tested financial assistance schemes to households affected by a severe weather event.

The Department of Social Protection adopts a three-stage approach:

• Stage 1: Provide emergency support payments (for food, clothing) in the immediate aftermath of the event. This Stage is not income tested and is based on the immediate need of impacted individuals
• Stage 2: Replace white goods and basic furniture
• Stage 3: Focus on damage to a household’s primary residency

The scheme will not cover losses covered by an insurance policy.

The income limits for the scheme are:

• €50,000 for a single person
• €90,000 for a couple
• €15,000 per dependent child

Reduced or tapered level of support may be provided in cases where your household income is above the limits.

If any homeowner affected by severe weather needs to access these supports, emergency Community Welfare Service contact details are available here: gov.ie - Customer Notices.

ESB Networks has been made aware of potentially very dangerous incidents where members of the public have unknowingly approached fallen electricity infrastructure. People are reminded to stay safe, stay clear of fallen electricity wires. If you come across fallen wires or damaged electricity network, never, ever touch or approach these as they are LIVE and extremely dangerous. Please report any damage to electricity infrastructure by calling 1800 372 999.

Arising from storm Éowyn, and subsequent damage to the ESB network, the Health and Safey Authority (HSA) understands that electrical generators are being used to provide temporary replacement power. When installing and using electrical generators, it is crucial to ensure that the electrical installation work is carried out by a competent person.

Persons installing generators should observe the electrical safety standards and ensure they do not connect a generator to a socket or distribution board. Doing so will create a feed onto the electricity network and will pose a danger to others including ESB network repair crews. It’s important to know that portable generators can bring a fire risk and emit carbon monoxide (CO) – a poisonous, deadly gas.

• store fuel for the generator in a container that is intended for the purpose and is correctly labelled as such. Store the containers outside of living areas
• use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas at least 7 metres from all doors, windows, and vent openings. Measure the 7-metre distance from the generator to the building
• never use a generator in an attached garage, even with the door open
• place generators so that exhaust fumes can’t enter the home through windows, doors or other openings in the building. The exhaust must be directed away from the building
• make sure to install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in your home. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for correct placement and mounting height
• turn off generators and let them cool down before refuelling. Never refuel a generator while it is hot
• never use outdoor fuel-burning equipment like barbeques or patio heaters indoors or in an unventilated area
• never use indoor cooking appliances to heat a room
• ensure your chimney is swept and unblocked before lighting a fire, and keep the room ventilated
• install one or more Carbon Monoxide alarms and test them once a month

For more safety guidance, visit the Carbon Monoxide website.

The majority of schools opened today (Wednesday), however, a number of schools have taken the decision to remain closed for safety reasons. Schools are advised that if they have any issues caused by the storm, the board of management can make the decision to remain closed until it is safe to reopen.

In carrying out any safety checks of buildings and facilities, school authorities should take into account the current and expected weather conditions, any damage that might have been caused to school buildings due to the storm, the restoration of power and the safety of the school community.

CAO deadline – 1 February

The closing date for initial registrations for students is Saturday 1 February at 17:00. Applications opened on 5 November 2024 for the 2025/26 academic year.

Any student having connectivity issues is advised to seek assistance from their school or avail of internet access in their nearest public library, further education college or higher education provider.

There is no need to panic - there are a number of options available to students. If a student can submit their registration, their choices can be amended in advance of the July deadline for course selection.

For any student unable submit an application by the 1 February deadline, another opportunity is available. The late application facility opens online on 5 March at 12:00 and closes on 1 May 2025 at 17:00.

The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science is actively engaging with government colleagues and with CAO on this matter.

Early learning and care and school age childcare settings are reminded the decision by the setting to reopen should prioritise the safety of children, staff and parents.

Some of the issues that settings should take into account include in their decision making include:

• conditions in the setting itself and any damage that might have been caused to buildings during and after the storm
• capacity of the setting to ensure the health and safety of children and students
• ability of parents, children and staff to safely negotiate local road conditions to reach the setting
• guidance and direction from the principal response agencies
• current and expected weather conditions

The Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications and the National Cyber Security Centre are aware of scam text messages in circulation purporting to come from ESB Networks.

Users should exercise caution when receiving messages from unknown numbers.

Government departments and agencies or your bank will never phone, text, email or video call you unexpectedly asking for your bank details.

Users should not engage directly, nor share any personal information if asked, and should block and report the suspicious number if necessary.

If you believe you are a victim of a cyber-crime, contact your local Garda station and take screenshots of texts, emails or other communications.

Further information is available on the ESB website.

HSE services throughout the country saw significant disruptions due to Storm Éowyn.

Updates, advice and details of further health service disruptions on the HSE website and the HSE will also provide regular updates through local media and on national and regional social media channels.

The Irish Blood Transfusion Service has advised of an urgent shortage of blood products and current requests for donations. Locations for donations can be found on the Irish Blood Transfusion Service website.

Nationally all road users are being advised to be aware of the dangers that may remain following the storm such as downed pylons, lines, trees, branches, and other debris which could block roads. Obey any road closures or diversions put in place by local authorities and An Garda Síochána.

Most transport services have now returned to normal, but passengers are still advised to contact their operator for the most up to date information.

Farmers are advised of the following.

Storm damage

• assess damage and the risks involved in carrying out repairs before undertaking work
• if working at height, always employ a mobile elevated work platform to avoid the risk of falling. Consider employing a contractor
• removing fallen trees should only be undertaken by chainsaw operators with the skills and the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to do so. Chainsaw operators should wear chainsaw trousers, chainsaw boots, visor, gloves and earmuffs

Electricity

• check that powerlines around the farmyard and farm haven't been damaged and notify ESB networks of any fallen or damaged power lines
• always treat fallen electricity wires as if they are live
• if using a generator, get a qualitied electrician to make the necessary connection
• where buildings have been damaged, get your electrician to check the electrical wiring

Farmer wellbeing

• fatigue can be a factor when it comes to safety incidents at busy times and at other times when farmers are under pressure. Where possible, take on temporary staff and use contractors to carry out work such as slurry spreading
• if feeling overwhelmed, reach out for support of family members, a trusted friend or neighbour, your agricultural advisor or your GP. If concerned about a farming issue, please contact the department

Animal welfare

• check on stock and move them away from dangers such as fallen electric wires
• with public water supplies impacted in many areas, alternative arrangements should be put in place to ensure livestock have access to water
• check that fences, particularly along roadside boundaries are stockproof. If electricity supply has been disrupted, the mains electric fences may no longer be stockproof
• place your order for your next delivery of concentrate feed in plenty of time to ensure it arrives when you need it

Revenue is aware that the exceptional weather events over recent days have caused difficulties for many and understands that this disruption can impact timely tax compliance.

Revenue will work with those taxpayers and businesses that have been adversely impacted by Storms Éowyn and Herminia, to ensure that good compliance records can remain on track despite the disruption caused.

The advice to taxpayers and businesses impacted by the disruption caused by Storms Éowyn and Herminia is to contact the Collector-General’s office once their circumstances allow, to agree mutually suitable arrangements to restore timely tax compliance.

Revenue’s Collector-General’s office can be contacted on 01 738 3663, or through MyEnquiries.

Ireland has been actively working with colleagues in the EU Civil Protection Mechanism since 22 January requesting an initial damage assessment through Copernicus (satellite mapping).

When severe emergencies occur, national authorities first develop an overview of the situation, making requests based on the needs identified. It is essential that a needs assessment be carried out to ensure appropriate and detailed requests can be made for limited shared resources.

The NECG Infrastructure sub-group identified the need for large capacity generator support which was relayed through the Common Emergency Communications & Information System (CECIS) on Saturday afternoon.

Ireland has been offered:

• 10 x 27.5 KvA generators (RescEU Stockpile, Poland)
• 3 x 512 KvA generators (RescEU stockpile, Poland)
• 1 x 100 KvA generators (Denmark)
• 3 x 150 KvA, generators (Denmark)

The generators will be deployed to support Uisce Eireann and telecommunications infrastructure.