Help Support Cork Safety Alerts – Donate the price of a coffee here via Stripe: https://csalert.ie/donate


The whole-of-government response to Storm Éowyn continues as efforts remain focused on restoring essential services across affected regions. The National Emergency Co-ordination Group (NECG) met today to assess progress and prioritise remaining restoration works. With thousands still without power, water, and telecommunications, emergency resources from Ireland and abroad are being deployed to accelerate recovery.

Power Restoration Efforts

ESB Networks has restored power to 635,000 customers, yet approximately 133,000 homes, farms, and businesses remain without supply. Restoration works continue with reinforcements arriving from Austria, Finland, Great Britain, France, and the Netherlands. Retired ESB technicians have also been drafted to assist in the unprecedented repair operation.

The latest projections indicate that by Friday, 31 January, most customers will have power restored. The remaining 100,000 will be progressively reconnected over the following week. Updates on restoration times can be found at www.PowerCheck.ie.

The public is reminded to stay clear of fallen power lines, which remain highly dangerous. Any damaged infrastructure should be reported immediately to ESB Networks at 1800 372 999.

Water Supply and EU Generator Assistance

Storm Éowyn has left approximately 7,500 premises without water, affecting around 20,000 people. While over 180,000 customers have seen their supply restored, challenges remain in the worst-hit areas. Uisce Éireann has deployed generators to critical facilities, and alternative water supplies are available in 50 locations.

The Irish government has secured large-capacity generators from Poland and Denmark under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. These will be deployed to key water and telecom facilities to accelerate restoration. Updates on alternative water supply locations can be found at www.water.ie or via Uisce Éireann’s customer service at 1800 278 278.

Telecommunications Recovery

ComReg reports that Storm Éowyn caused the largest telecom disruption on record. 2% of fixed-line users and 9% of mobile users are still experiencing outages, primarily in the north and west of the country. While emergency calls remain functional across all networks, degraded mobile data and voice services persist in certain areas.

Restoration priorities are focused on voice and SMS services, with data expected to follow. ComReg continues to monitor the situation, and further updates will be provided in the coming days.

Emergency Response and Humanitarian Aid

Local authorities have activated 19 Local Coordination Groups to manage relief efforts. More than 280 Emergency Response Hubs are operational, providing water, food, phone charging, broadband access, and shower facilities. Vulnerable individuals are being prioritised, with An Garda Síochána, Uisce Éireann, ESB Networks, An Post, and HSE teams checking on at-risk residents.

The Humanitarian Assistance Scheme is available to support households directly affected by the storm. This means-tested financial aid assists with emergency expenses, furniture replacement, and home repairs. Details on eligibility and application processes can be found at www.gov.ie/stormresponse.

Public Safety Warnings

Authorities have issued several critical safety warnings:

  • Electricity and Generator Safety: Never approach fallen power lines. Use generators safely by ensuring correct ventilation and placement. Carbon monoxide poisoning risks remain high, so CO alarms should be installed and checked regularly.
  • Road Safety: Many roads remain hazardous due to fallen trees and debris. Motorists should obey diversions and drive cautiously.
  • Scam Alerts: Reports of fraudulent text messages and bogus tradespeople have increased. Residents are urged to verify identities before engaging with any service providers. Concerns should be reported to local Gardaí.

Impact on Schools and Higher Education

While most schools have reopened, some remain closed due to safety concerns. Schools are advised to assess damage, power supply, and accessibility before resuming operations.

With the CAO deadline approaching on 1 February, students facing connectivity issues can access the internet at public libraries, further education colleges, or higher education institutions. A late application window will be available from 5 March to 1 May.

Agricultural and Farming Support

Farmers are urged to assess storm damage with caution, ensuring power lines and fences are safe before working. Support is available for livestock water supply, and those facing extreme challenges are encouraged to contact the Department of Agriculture.

Revenue and Financial Support

Revenue has assured affected taxpayers and businesses that flexibility will be granted for compliance deadlines. Those impacted should contact the Collector-General’s office at 01 738 3663 for assistance.

Conclusion

The NECG continues to coordinate national recovery efforts, with daily updates provided through government agencies and local authorities. With reinforcements from EU partners, emergency crews, and local volunteers, the government remains committed to ensuring all affected communities receive the support needed for full restoration.

For further updates, visit www.gov.ie/stormresponse.