Lights back on for 70,000 as ESB begins to repair Storm Darragh damage
Further power outages can be expected from potentially damaging gusts.
ESB Networks crews and partner contractors have been deployed since early this morning to assess the damage of Storm Darragh, make the network safe, and restore electricity supply in challenging conditions.
Storm Darragh has caused extensive damage to the electricity network across the country, with it's extremely strong and gusty winds.
At 7am this morning, an astounding 395,000 homes were left with no power, since then, 70,000 homes have been restored, leaving 325,000 to go.
The impact is nationwide and there has been extensive damage to electricity infrastructure so far.
Further power outages can be expected from potentially damaging gusts.
This storm has had the biggest impact yet on ESB networks, trumping 2017's Storm Ophelia, which left 385,000 customers without power.
All ESB Networks teams are mobilised and are continuing to closely monitor the storm impact on power supplies, however, they expect that power restoration will take multiple days.
Significant numbers of impacted customers will have their power restored today, but restoration efforts will take a number of days and it is likely that the areas worst affected will take longer.
Given the scale of the damage and the dynamic nature of the event, ESB will be working to confirm restoration times for customers throughout the day, and will update their website here when the information is confirmed.
They advise customers to sign up for the 'Keep me Notified' service for power outages on the site to receive status updates directly.
An Important Public Safety Message from ESB Networks: If you come across fallen wires or damaged electricity network, never, ever touch or approach these as they are live and extremely dangerous.
Please report any damage to electricity infrastructure by calling 1800 372 999.