Storm Ellen arrived in Ireland last night (Wednesday, August 19) bringing with it severe and damaging winds.
While there were fallen trees, flooding and power cuts left behind, there was no loss of life or any serious injuries as a result of the storm, the Department of Housing has confirmed this afternoon (Thursday, August 20).
This time of year, trees are in full leaf and this contributed to a significant number of trees falling around the country, leading to blocked roads and damaged power lines.
Co. Cork was worst affected, with a Status Red wind warning issued for the county last night. Flooding was reported in Skibbereen and Bandon and over 30,000 homes and businesses were without power in the county.
ESB said it expects tens of thousands more to be restored by tonight, but some homes in areas of the south, west and midlands will remain without power for the night.
Speaking about the impact of the storm, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien said: “I understand there are a lot of homes and businesses without power today. Many trees have fallen, road conditions are treacherous in places and some towns are dealing with the aftermath of flooding.
“I would urge people to remain vigilant, slow down on roads, do not approach fallen trees or electricity wires and be aware that there is still a yellow weather warning in place.”
Status Yellow wind and rain warnings remain
Weather conditions remain unsettled and people should be “aware of the potential for further rainfall and coastal flooding today and tomorrow” along the southern and western coasts.
Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow wind warning for: Dublin; Louth; Wexford; Wicklow; Meath; Cork; Kerry; and Waterford, in place from 5:00pm today until 5:00am tomorrow morning.
There is also a Status Yellow rainfall warning in place for Ireland from 9:00am today until 5:00am tomorrow morning. Met Éireann said that “heavy, squally downpours and thunderstorms will bring a risk of spot flooding at times”.