Ireland is currently facing the brunt of Storm Bert, a powerful weather system that has prompted Met Éireann to issue multiple weather warnings across the country. The storm, described as a “multi-hazard” event, is bringing a combination of heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding.
Weather Warnings and Impact
Met Éireann has issued red weather warnings for Cork and Galway, indicating the highest level of alert due to the severe conditions expected in these areas. Orange warnings are in place for several other counties, including Donegal, Kerry, and Mayo. These warnings highlight the potential for significant disruption, including power outages, travel delays, and property damage. The red warnings are expected to remain in effect until 10am, while the orange warnings will lift by noon.
The storm has brought torrential rain and winds gusting close to 110 km/h overnight. Rivers in several counties, including Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Galway, and Mayo, have broken their banks, leading to road closures and further travel disruptions. The Road Safety Authority has advised motorists to avoid any travel during the storm window. Public transport across Ireland has been heavily impacted, with numerous Iarnród Éireann and Bus Éireann services either delayed or cancelled. The Green Party has cancelled an election event in Dublin due to the effects of the storm.
Power Outages
Storm Bert has left nearly 60,000 homes and businesses without power across Ireland. The worst-hit areas include Cork, Galway, and Donegal, where fallen trees and downed power lines have caused widespread outages. Emergency crews are working tirelessly to restore electricity, but the ongoing severe weather conditions are making their efforts challenging. The ESB has confirmed that the number of affected households could increase as the storm progresses.
Flooding Concerns
In West Cork, residents are particularly on edge as they recall the devastating floods caused by Storm Babet just last month. Business owners and homeowners in Bantry are relieved that the town has so far escaped major flooding, but the threat remains as heavy rainfall continues. In East Cork, areas like Midleton are still recovering from previous flood damage and are on high alert for any signs of rising water levels. Additionally, a landslide in a small Irish town has exacerbated the flooding situation, causing further damage and disruption. Rivers in several counties, including Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Galway, and Mayo, have broken their banks, leading to road closures and further travel disruptions.
Travel Disruptions
The storm has already caused significant travel disruptions. Flights have been cancelled, and there are reports of hazardous driving conditions due to fallen trees and debris on the roads. Public transport services are also experiencing delays, and authorities are advising people to avoid non-essential travel. Roads in several counties, including Kerry and Limerick, have been closed due to flooding. The Road Safety Authority has advised motorists to avoid any travel during the storm window, and numerous Iarnród Éireann and Bus Éireann services have been either delayed or cancelled.
Emergency Services and Public Safety
Emergency services are on high alert, responding to incidents and assisting those affected by the storm. The public is urged to stay indoors where possible and to secure any loose objects that could become dangerous in high winds. Met Éireann has also warned of the possibility of hail and isolated thunderstorms, which could exacerbate the situation. The Defence Forces have been deployed to assist with flood relief efforts in the most affected areas. Local authority crews in Cork and Galway are closely monitoring developments and are on standby to respond to any incidents as soon as it is safe to do so. The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management has stressed the importance of sheltering in place and avoiding travel during the red level warnings. The Irish Coast Guard has also issued a warning for people to stay away from coastal areas during this period.
Local authority crews in Cork and Galway are closely monitoring developments and are on standby to respond to any incidents as soon as it is safe to do so. The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management has stressed the importance of sheltering in place and avoiding travel during the red level warnings. The Irish Coast Guard has also issued a warning for people to stay away from coastal areas during this period.
