Louth Begins Cleanup After Storm Éowyn Leaves Trail of Devastation
Ardee News and Sport – Louth Begins Cleanup After Storm Éowyn Leaves Trail of Devastation
*UPDATE*
Cleanup and restoration efforts continue across County Louth and the rest of Ireland following the devastating impact of Storm Éowyn. As of this morning, an estimated 528,000 homes and businesses remain without power nationwide. Additionally, Uisce Éireann reports that around 138,000 people are without water, with another 175,000 at risk due to damaged supplies.
Louth County Council confirmed their crews were deployed at first light to address storm damage. Over 150 calls were made to their customer service team on Friday, reporting fallen trees, debris, and damaged infrastructure. Residents are urged to remain cautious, particularly near weakened structures, trees, and downed power lines.
National Impact
Met Éireann reported that parts of the west coast experienced “hurricane force” winds during the storm, making it one of the strongest weather events recorded in recent years. The newly elected Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, issued a statement acknowledging the unprecedented destruction and praising emergency crews for their swift response:
“The destruction caused by some of the strongest winds on record has been unprecedented, and there is still a huge amount of work needed in the days ahead to restore electricity, water, and communications to hundreds of thousands of people.
My Government will fully assess the situation in the coming days to see what supports we can offer to people and businesses caught up in the aftermath of this storm.”
Services and Updates
An Post has confirmed that subject to local road conditions, postal deliveries and Post Office services will resume today, Saturday. However, some Post Offices, particularly in the west and midlands, are still awaiting power restoration and may open later than usual. Social welfare payments originally due on Friday will remain available today and throughout the coming week.
Advice for After the Storm:
• Avoid contact with downed electrical or telephone cables.
• Steer clear of damaged walls, buildings, and trees that may have been weakened.
• Check on vulnerable neighbors or relatives and assist them in arranging necessary repairs.
Emergency Contacts for Louth:
• Emergencies Outside Normal Hours: 021 4824319
• Customer Service Number: 042-9335457
• Email: info@louthcoco.ie
Regular updates will be provided by Louth County Council on their social media channels. For power and water supply updates, visit www.PowerCheck.ie and www.water.ie. Follow weather alerts on www.met.ie.
The recovery process will take time, but the combined efforts of emergency services, local authorities, and community members ensure that Louth is already making strides toward rebuilding.