Emergency Response – Eire Now https://eirenow.news Fri, 01 Nov 2024 13:50:25 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://eirenow.news/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/eirenow-favicon.svg Emergency Response – Eire Now https://eirenow.news 32 32 Spain Faces Historic Flooding: Rescuers Battle Aftermath as Casualties Exceed 200 https://eirenow.news/international-news/spain-faces-historic-flooding-rescuers-battle-aftermath-as-casualties-exceed-200/ https://eirenow.news/international-news/spain-faces-historic-flooding-rescuers-battle-aftermath-as-casualties-exceed-200/#respond Fri, 01 Nov 2024 13:50:24 +0000 https://eirenow.ie/?p=2433 The aftermath of catastrophic flooding in Spain has tragically pushed the death toll beyond 200, with regional authorities in Valencia confirming the grim count. This incident now stands as Spain’s deadliest flood-related event in recorded history, eclipsing the 1970 Romanian floods where 209 lives were lost. As the nation grapples with this calamity, the number of casualties continues to climb, making it the most fatal flooding event in a European country in over five decades.

Valencia, the eastern region hardest hit by the floods, has reported at least 202 fatalities, with additional lives lost in Castilla La Mancha and Andalusia. The relentless floodwaters have left communities isolated, prompting the setup of a temporary morgue in a local convention center and a significant rescue operation spearheaded by 500 soldiers.

As rescue efforts persist, the region remains on high alert, with a new weather warning issued for Huelva in southwestern Spain due to ongoing severe conditions. The impact of the storm has been devastating, with approximately 75,000 homes without electricity. Emergency services, including firefighters, have resorted to extracting petrol from abandoned vehicles to power generators, crucial for restoring electricity in affected areas.

The catastrophic rainfall recorded a staggering 491mm in just eight hours, a figure nearly matching the annual precipitation average, causing unprecedented destruction to infrastructure. This deluge has swept away roads, rail tracks, and bridges, underscoring the intensity of the storm.

In a display of international solidarity, Ireland’s Taoiseach Simon Harris has reached out to Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, expressing deep sorrow and shock over the tragic loss of life. Meanwhile, the Spanish meteorological agency has issued a red alert for the province of Huelva, highlighting the ongoing risk as the storm system continues to affect the region.

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Two Dublin Schools Evacuated Today After Gas Pipeline Incident https://eirenow.news/local-news/two-dublin-schools-evacuated-today-after-gas-pipeline-incident/ https://eirenow.news/local-news/two-dublin-schools-evacuated-today-after-gas-pipeline-incident/#respond Mon, 07 Oct 2024 13:18:13 +0000 https://eirenow.ie/?p=1587 Early this morning, a significant disruption occurred in Lucan, Dublin, as two local schools, Scoil Áine Naofa and St Thomas’, were forced to evacuate due to a major gas leak. The incident unfolded shortly after a gas main was accidentally struck near Esker Drive, prompting immediate action from emergency services.

The Dublin Fire Brigade, in coordination with Gas Networks Ireland, responded swiftly to the emergency. The leak was reported at around 9:14 AM, with teams arriving on the scene within minutes. By 9:58 AM, the situation was under control, but the event left the community on high alert and caused considerable disruption to the morning routines of many.

Parents and residents were informed as the schools conducted a well-executed self-evacuation, ensuring the safety of all students and staff. The quick response by the schools and the efficiency of the emergency procedures in place were key in avoiding any injuries.

Traffic restrictions were quickly implemented to facilitate emergency response and ensure public safety, causing delays but necessary for the containment of the situation. Gas Networks Ireland has reassured the public that they are investigating the cause of the damage to prevent future incidents.

As of now, the area has been declared safe, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures during construction and maintenance work near critical infrastructure.

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Intense Rainfall Strikes Cork and Waterford: Orange and Yellow Alerts Issued https://eirenow.news/local-news/intense-rainfall-strikes-cork-and-waterford-orange-and-yellow-alerts-issued/ https://eirenow.news/local-news/intense-rainfall-strikes-cork-and-waterford-orange-and-yellow-alerts-issued/#respond Sun, 29 Sep 2024 08:33:26 +0000 https://eirenow.ie/?p=1380 As torrential rains drench the regions of Cork and Waterford, a Status Orange alert has been urgently issued to warn residents and travelers of the potential hazards ahead. The alert, which is set to persist until 6 PM, brings with it a heavy deluge and thunderstorms strong enough to provoke widespread flooding and severely disrupt travel.

Authorities in Cork and Waterford convened their Severe Weather Assessment Teams yesterday in anticipation of the storm, which also sees a Status Yellow warning extended until 8 PM today. Cork County Council has temporarily halted the Dursey Cable Car service due to the inclement weather, promising a resumption only after a thorough safety evaluation.

In an effort to mitigate the impact, strategic locations in Cork will see the deployment of sandbags, while Waterford’s ground crews remain on alert to tackle any resultant flooding or drainage issues.

The weather saga continues with an additional Status Orange warning poised to encompass Carlow, Kilkenny, and Wexford starting at 1 PM today, signaling no respite from the harsh conditions until well past midnight.

Meanwhile, surrounding areas including Kerry, Limerick, and Tipperary are also under a Status Yellow alert until tonight. This alert will expand to include Cork and Waterford post the culmination of the current Orange alert.

Travel advisors and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) are urging motorists and pedestrians to exercise extreme caution. The RSA advises drivers to reduce speed, increase braking distances, and avoid roads prone to flooding. Visibility is paramount for cyclists and pedestrians, who are advised to adorn bright, reflective clothing to ensure they are visible in the stormy conditions.As torrential rains drench the regions of Cork and Waterford, a Status Orange alert has been urgently issued to warn residents and travelers of the potential hazards ahead. The alert, which is set to persist until 6 PM, brings with it a heavy deluge and thunderstorms strong enough to provoke widespread flooding and severely disrupt travel.

Authorities in Cork and Waterford convened their Severe Weather Assessment Teams yesterday in anticipation of the storm, which also sees a Status Yellow warning extended until 8 PM today. Cork County Council has temporarily halted the Dursey Cable Car service due to the inclement weather, promising a resumption only after a thorough safety evaluation.

In an effort to mitigate the impact, strategic locations in Cork will see the deployment of sandbags, while Waterford’s ground crews remain on alert to tackle any resultant flooding or drainage issues.

The weather saga continues with an additional Status Orange warning poised to encompass Carlow, Kilkenny, and Wexford starting at 1 PM today, signaling no respite from the harsh conditions until well past midnight.

Meanwhile, surrounding areas including Kerry, Limerick, and Tipperary are also under a Status Yellow alert until tonight. This alert will expand to include Cork and Waterford post the culmination of the current Orange alert.

Travel advisors and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) are urging motorists and pedestrians to exercise extreme caution. The RSA advises drivers to reduce speed, increase braking distances, and avoid roads prone to flooding. Visibility is paramount for cyclists and pedestrians, who are advised to adorn bright, reflective clothing to ensure they are visible in the stormy conditions.

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Tragedy on Connolly-Sligo Train Line: Emergency Services Mobilized Following Incident https://eirenow.news/local-news/tragedy-on-connolly-sligo-train-line-emergency-services-mobilized-following-incident/ https://eirenow.news/local-news/tragedy-on-connolly-sligo-train-line-emergency-services-mobilized-following-incident/#respond Fri, 27 Sep 2024 17:58:07 +0000 https://eirenow.ie/?p=1373 In an unfortunate turn of events, the Connolly to Sligo train line witnessed a grave incident today, leading to an emergency stop of the 13:05 service near Ballisodare. This development has caused significant concern among passengers and local commuters alike.

According to Irish Rail’s latest update via their social media platforms, the train halted just outside the small town of Collooney following a serious incident. The nature of the tragedy has not been fully disclosed, and details remain scant as the situation continues to unfold.

Responding promptly to the emergency, multiple emergency services teams were dispatched to the scene. The area has been cordoned off to facilitate an unhindered emergency response and to ensure the safety of all involved.

As of now, Irish Rail has not provided specific information about the cause of the incident or any details regarding potential injuries or fatalities. The focus is currently on the emergency response and the well-being of those affected by this tragic event. Further updates from Irish Rail and local authorities are expected as more information becomes available.

Travelers planning to use this route are advised to seek alternative transportation options as the train service remains suspended. Irish Rail and local transportation authorities are working diligently to manage the situation and minimize disruption.

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Tragic Blaze at Spanish Wedding: Irish Woman Suffers Severe Burns https://eirenow.news/international-news/tragic-blaze-at-spanish-wedding-irish-woman-suffers-severe-burns/ https://eirenow.news/international-news/tragic-blaze-at-spanish-wedding-irish-woman-suffers-severe-burns/#respond Tue, 24 Sep 2024 17:05:07 +0000 https://eirenow.ie/?p=1339 In a harrowing incident on the eastern coast of Costa del Sol, a celebration turned tragic when an Irish woman’s dress caught fire at a wedding, leading to serious injuries. The 29-year-old victim, who was attending a friend’s wedding in Nerja, Spain, is now fighting for her life in a specialist burn unit at Seville’s Virgen del Rocio University Hospital.

The accident occurred shortly before midnight last Thursday at holiday apartments located in Nerja’s scenic Balcón de Europa viewpoint. According to reports, the woman’s dress was set ablaze by decorative candles positioned in the bathroom, quickly engulfing her in flames. The fire was discovered when fellow guests found her semi-conscious and immediately dialed emergency services.

Initial treatment was provided in a nearby city of Malaga where the woman underwent an emergency operation. Due to the severity of her burns, she was later transferred to a specialized burns unit in Seville. Medical professionals at the facility have expressed concern about her condition, stating her recovery remains uncertain and her future prognosis is still unclear.

The Department of Foreign Affairs of Ireland has stepped in to provide consular assistance to the injured woman and her family during this difficult time. A spokesperson from the department confirmed their involvement and continuous support to ensure the best possible care for the citizen abroad.

This tragic event has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a joyous celebration, reminding us all of the unforeseen dangers that can suddenly arise in any setting.

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Toddler Recovering After Horrific XL bully dog Attack in Kerry Home https://eirenow.news/national-news/toddler-recovering-after-horrific-xl-bully-dog-attack-in-kerry-home/ https://eirenow.news/national-news/toddler-recovering-after-horrific-xl-bully-dog-attack-in-kerry-home/#respond Mon, 19 Aug 2024 17:55:55 +0000 https://eirenow.ie/?p=1100 Lixnaw, Kerry – A toddler is currently recovering at Cork University Hospital following a severe dog attack in her family home in North Kerry. The incident, which occurred on Saturday evening, involved a 12-month-old girl and a dog believed to be an XL bully breed.

Emergency responders rushed to the scene in Lixnaw after the attack, swiftly transporting the toddler to the hospital where she underwent immediate surgery. The child, whose identity remains protected, continues to receive medical care as she recovers from significant injuries sustained during the ordeal.

Local authorities, including Gardaí, have been actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the distressing event. Officials confirmed their awareness of the incident shortly after it happened, emphasizing the severity of the injuries involved.

This incident has sparked a broader discussion on pet safety and child protection within homes, highlighting the need for increased awareness and possibly stricter regulations on certain dog breeds.

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Gorse Fire in Sandyford Extinguished with Support from Coillte Helicopter, 4,000 Homes Impacted https://eirenow.news/local-news/gorse-fire-in-sandyford-extinguished-with-support-from-coillte-helicopter-4000-homes-impacted/ https://eirenow.news/local-news/gorse-fire-in-sandyford-extinguished-with-support-from-coillte-helicopter-4000-homes-impacted/#respond Mon, 12 Aug 2024 03:12:02 +0000 https://eirenow.ie/?p=1032 A significant gorse fire in Sandyford near the townland of Barnacullia was successfully extinguished on Sunday evening, thanks in large part to the collaborative efforts of Dublin Fire Brigade (DFB) and Coillte. The fire, which had started earlier in the afternoon, posed a serious threat to the surrounding area and caused widespread disruptions.

Dublin Fire Brigade announced on social media that the blaze was finally under control around 9:30 PM. The fire had initially sparked considerable concern as it spread rapidly, with strong winds driving smoke across a wide area, making the situation more perilous.

One of the most crucial elements in controlling the gorse fire in Sandyford was the involvement of a Coillte helicopter, which played a pivotal role in dousing the flames. The helicopter was deployed around 6:30 PM, dropping water over the affected area for several hours. DFB expressed their gratitude to Coillte, noting that the aerial support allowed “great progress to be made” in containing the fire.

During the operation, up to 4,000 homes in the Tallaght and Dundrum areas experienced power outages as the flames damaged power lines. However, thanks to the quick response from the ESB, the affected homes were switched to a different power line, and electricity was restored within approximately 90 minutes. By Sunday evening, ESB crews were still assessing the extent of the damage.

The fire was attended by six units of Dublin Fire Brigade, including two water tankers, which managed to bring the situation largely under control by late afternoon. Despite the fire being confined to a relatively small area, it generated a significant amount of smoke, which was visible across large parts of Dublin. As a precaution, local roads such as Woodside Road and Slate Cabin Road were temporarily closed to traffic.

Residents in the area were advised by both the DFB and local councillor Oisín O’Connor to stay indoors and close their windows due to the heavy smoke. The situation prompted hundreds of calls to DFB from concerned citizens.

An Garda Síochána was also present at the scene, assisting fire services. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries related to the gorse fire in Sandyford.

This incident highlights the ongoing risks posed by gorse fires during dry weather conditions and underscores the importance of rapid response and inter-agency cooperation in managing such emergencies.

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Tragedy Strikes in Germany: Hotel Collapse in Kroev Leaves Two Dead, Two Trapped https://eirenow.news/international-news/germany-news/tragedy-strikes-in-germany-hotel-collapse-in-kroev-leaves-two-dead-two-trapped/ https://eirenow.news/international-news/germany-news/tragedy-strikes-in-germany-hotel-collapse-in-kroev-leaves-two-dead-two-trapped/#respond Wed, 07 Aug 2024 19:10:09 +0000 https://eirenow.ie/?p=995 In a tragic incident, a hotel collapse in Germany’s wine-making town of Kroev, situated along the picturesque Mosel River, has left two people dead and two others trapped. The collapse occurred around 11pm local time on Tuesday, shattering the peace of the small town with a population of approximately 2,200 residents.

The Incident Unfolds

The disaster struck when one storey of the hotel building collapsed, leaving a total of fourteen people in a precarious situation. According to police reports, five people managed to escape the wreckage unharmed. However, the remaining individuals were trapped under the debris, prompting an intense rescue operation.

Joerg Teusch, the fire and rescue chief of the Bernkastel-Wittlich district, emphasized the difficulty of the rescue efforts due to the structure’s instability. “The collapse of one storey left two ceilings lying on top of each other. The entire building structure is like a house of cards. If we pull on the wrong card, this building is sure to collapse,” Teusch stated during a news conference.

Rescue Efforts Underway

Despite the challenging conditions, rescue teams have been working tirelessly to save those trapped. Among the first to be rescued was a two-year-old child who miraculously emerged unscathed. The child’s mother was also rescued, suffering only minor injuries, followed by the child’s father later in the operation. This heartwarming rescue brought tears to the eyes of many on-site, highlighting the emotional weight of the situation.

However, the somber reality of the collapse hit hard as authorities confirmed that two people had lost their lives. The cause of the structural failure remains undetermined, with investigations ongoing to uncover the reason behind this tragic event.

Community and Emergency Response

In the aftermath of the collapse, authorities evacuated 31 people from the immediate vicinity of the damaged building to ensure their safety. Around 250 emergency workers, including drone specialists and rescue dogs, were deployed to the scene to assist in the complex rescue operation.

Witnesses recounted the terrifying moment of the collapse, describing a loud bang followed by a cloud of dust enveloping the area. The regional public broadcaster SWR shared these accounts, capturing the sudden and shocking nature of the incident.

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E-scooter User Hospitalized Following Serious Collision in Sligo https://eirenow.news/local-news/e-scooter-user-hospitalized-following-serious-collision-in-sligo/ https://eirenow.news/local-news/e-scooter-user-hospitalized-following-serious-collision-in-sligo/#respond Tue, 09 Jul 2024 20:56:05 +0000 https://eirenow.ie/?p=570 An E-scooter user was seriously injured in a road-traffic collision on Calry Road, Sligo, early this morning. The accident occurred shortly before 9 am on the R286. Emergency services quickly responded to the scene, and a section of the N16 was temporarily closed to facilitate the emergency response and investigation.

The injured individual was initially taken to a local hospital but has since been transferred to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin for further treatment due to the severity of their injuries. The road has since reopened, and investigations into the cause of the E-scooter collision in Sligo are ongoing.

This incident highlights the increasing need for road safety measures for E-scooter users in Sligo. As the popularity of E-scooters grows, ensuring the safety of both riders and other road users becomes paramount. Local authorities are urged to consider implementing stricter safety regulations and better infrastructure to accommodate this mode of transport.

Residents are reminded to stay cautious and aware of E-scooters on the roads, as accidents can happen unexpectedly. Witnesses to the collision are encouraged to come forward with any information that could assist the investigation.

Safety Concerns Rise Following E-scooter Collision in Sligo

The incident involving the E-scooter collision in Sligo has raised significant concerns among local residents and authorities. E-scooter use has surged in popularity, but this rise has also led to an increase in accidents and injuries. The transfer of the injured individual to Beaumont Hospital underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for immediate attention to safety protocols.

Local officials are considering several measures to enhance E-scooter safety, including dedicated lanes, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and public awareness campaigns. These steps aim to reduce the risk of future accidents and ensure that E-scooter users and other road users can coexist safely.

Community members are encouraged to participate in discussions about E-scooter regulations and to share their experiences and suggestions with local authorities. By working together, the community can develop effective strategies to prevent further incidents like the recent E-scooter collision in Sligo.

In the meantime, E-scooter users are advised to wear protective gear, adhere to traffic rules, and remain vigilant while riding. Pedestrians and drivers should also be aware of the presence of E-scooters and practice caution to avoid accidents.

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Two Dead, One Missing After Devastating Landslide in Switzerland https://eirenow.news/national-news/two-dead-one-missing-after-devastating-landslide-in-switzerland/ https://eirenow.news/national-news/two-dead-one-missing-after-devastating-landslide-in-switzerland/#respond Sun, 30 Jun 2024 14:56:25 +0000 https://eirenow.ie/?p=426 A severe landslide in Switzerland has resulted in the tragic loss of two lives, with one person still missing. This natural disaster, triggered by relentless storms that have ravaged parts of Europe, has caused widespread destruction and raised concerns over climate extremes.

The landslide occurred in the early hours of June 30, 2024, in the Swiss town of Brienz. According to local authorities, the heavy rains that pounded the region over the past week led to the destabilization of the mountain slopes, resulting in a massive slide of mud and debris. The landslide not only claimed two lives but also left one individual unaccounted for, with rescue operations ongoing.

Emergency services have been working tirelessly to locate the missing person. However, efforts have been hampered by the treacherous conditions and the sheer volume of debris. Swiss authorities have called in additional resources to aid in the search and rescue mission, hoping to find the missing person alive despite the challenging circumstances .

This disaster in Switzerland is part of a larger pattern of extreme weather affecting Europe. As reported by Breaking News, at least four people have died across Switzerland and Italy due to storms causing both flooding and landslides. The torrential downpours have led to rivers overflowing, washing away cars and damaging infrastructure .

The Guardian highlights the impact of these storms in other parts of Europe, including France, where severe weather has caused significant disruptions. In some areas, the heavy rains have led to localized flooding, forcing evacuations and causing damage to homes and businesses .

The Daily Mail provides a broader perspective on Europe’s weather chaos, noting that the continent is experiencing extreme weather conditions, including a heatwave with temperatures soaring to 42°C in some regions. This combination of high temperatures and severe storms has created a volatile and dangerous environment across multiple countries.

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