Statement from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on Severe Weather/Storm Barra - 8 December

08 December 2021

This morning the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management’s Crisis Management Team conducted a further virtual National Coordination meeting with Met Éireann, Local Authorities, the Principal Response Agencies, Government Departments and their Agencies to assess the impacts of Storm Barra.

As the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is designated as the Lead Government Department for coordinating the response to severe weather emergencies at national level, the meeting was chaired by the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management. Minster Darragh O’Brien and Minister O’Donovan were in attendance.

All information relating to Storm Barra can be found here: Item was unpublished or removed

A Status Yellow Wind warning remains in place for Dublin, Louth, Meath, Wicklow, Mayo valid until 16.00, and a Status Yellow Wind warning in place for Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo valid until 18.00 with blustery conditions expected to continue in the Northwest of the country into the evening. Dangerous conditions are also expected to continue at sea with marine warnings in place. The latest information available at Met Éireann's website

The OPW continue to monitor tide, storm surge and sea level forecasts and conditions around the national coastline. The High Tide Advisory Notice issued on Sunday remains in place for today, Wednesday 8th December.

Local Authority Crisis Management Teams and Local Co-ordination Groups continue to monitor conditions, with flood defences remaining in place. Road closures may remain in place for a time as local authority crew’s work to remove fallen trees and debris and the public should monitor Local Authority advisories for updated information.

As at 12.45 pm, approximately 30,000 electricity customers are without power across the country with counties along the Western and North-western Seaboard most impacted. ESB Networks crews continue to work tirelessly to restore power to as many customers as possible by the end of today. Real time updates and report an outage on POWER CHECK. Fallen wires pose a risk to life. Stay safe, stay clear and report any damage to us immediately on 1800 372 999.

The HSE have advised that some service disruption may still occur today with some services closed and some appointments cancelled. The public are advised to consult the HSE website for details on up to date information.

There have been reports of trees and electrical cables falling and debris affecting the National Road and Rail networks. Thankfully, due to the public heeding clear and consistent public safety messaging, there were no major reported incidents or injuries to members of the public or the emergency services. There was also very little damage or destruction of property.

Department of Social Protection are on standby with their Community Welfare Officers to assist with damage and recovery due to the impacts of flooding and the storm. Further information is available on Item was unpublished or removed or contact their local Item was unpublished or removed. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment have activated the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme to provide urgent funding to small businesses that have been damaged by flooding as a result of Storm Barra.

The aftermath of a Storm is often the most dangerous time as people begin to undertake clean-up and repair. Keeping in mind that many areas of the country are still experiencing strong winds, people working alone, those working at heights or near water or using equipment that they may not be familiar with, such as chainsaws, are reminded to be aware of the hazards and not undertake any forms of work best left to professionals.

The other key public safety messages are

• All road users should be aware of the hazardous traveling conditions, and only necessary journeys should be undertaken. Motorists should slow down and be aware of the dangers of fallen trees and debris. Cyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists and high sided vehicles are particularly vulnerable during this time.

• Electricity wires are always live, never approach. If you see fallen or damaged wires, keep clear and phone ESB Networks immediately on 1800 372 999 and 021 238 2410.

• Further information regarding the particular challenges that winter can present, can be found at the Be Winter Ready website including HSA safety advice regarding the use of tools and equipment during and after the storm.

NDFEM Crisis Management Team will continue to monitor conditions working with Met Éireann, OPW and all Local Authorities.

ENDS